THE DAY BEFORE CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS
****************************************
Harry sat alone in the common room, gazing into the fire. The snowflakes lashed against the frosted window panes. Harry sighed heavely.
"Something wrong?"
Harry glanced over his shoulder. Abby was standing by the portrait hole. Harry forced a smile.
"No, nothing." He said in a tone that was unconvincing. Abby gracefully crossed the room and sat down next to Harry...right next to Harry. Neither said anything for a while. Harry gazed into the fire while Abby gazed at him.
"I notice you spend a lot of time with Hermione..." She said quietly. Harry smiled.
"Yeah...we're just friends though." He said quietly. Abby placed one of her warm, delicate hands on his face. Harry looked at her. She was so beautiful.
"What about us Harry? Are we just friends?" She asked. Harry noticed her leaning in slightly. Their eyes were locked. He didn't say anything. Their lips connected. The kiss lasted about a minute, then they separated. Harry didn't know what to think. Abby smiled and ran a finger over Harry's bottom lip. That kiss felt so right... Abby leaned in again and their lips connected for a second time. This time though, Harry reached a hand up and rested it on her cheek. When they separated, Abby looked both happy and frightened. She backed away a little. Harry stood up.
"I er...was supposed to meet Ron." He said quickly. Abby absent mindedly licked her lips, then nodded. Harry tore through the portrait hole. His mind was flooding with questions. He and Abby were just friends...or were they?
Harry was walking aimlessly around the castle. He didn't know if he wanted a relationship...there was so much going on in his life. He decided that he would go back to the common room and let Abby down easily. It was going to be hard though... Harry returned to the common room. Abby was sitting in front of the fire. She got up and went to greet Harry. Their eyes locked and their faces were inches from each other. "Abby, I was thinking about it..." Harry began. Abby bit her lip. "And I don't really know if I'm ready..." Harry trailed off as he realised Abby's face was coming closer to his own. "For a relationship. I hope you understand." He said in barely more than a whisper. Abby nodded. There was a moment where Harry thought they were going to kiss, but at exactly the same time, they stepped back. Abby blushed and went back to the fire. Harry just climbed the steps to his dorm.
Harry woke the next morning to a nearly empty Gryffindor tower. Only a few people had stayed for the holidays. Ron, Hermione, Harry and Abby were the only Gryffindors. Harry told Ron all about what happened with Abby. "And you told her you didn't want a relationship?" Ron asked, disbelieving. Harry nodded. He didn't want a relationship! That day, there were some snowball fights and they went to visit Hagrid. Hermione seemed to be sticking very close to Harry. Hagrid seemed to notice this. "Are you two..." He began. "No!" Harry said quickly. Hermione's face fell. The rest of the visit was quite sub dued. Ron did something rather unfortunate...he told Hermione what happened between Harry and Abby. Hermione was quite cold to Abby for the rest of the day.
DECEMBER 24TH ****************************************
As Harry did every morning, he sat in the common room, gazing into the fire. Abby came down the girl's dormitory steps and sat down next to him. "Harry?" She asked. Harry glanced at her. "Yeah?" He asked absent mindedly. "I was thinking. Maybe...maybe you didn't think about it hard enough. I mean...us. I think we'd go really well together." Abby said hastily. Harry looked at her. She was being serious. Harry straightened himself and turned to face her. "It's just...I've got so much crap going on and I don't know if now's a good time for a relationship." Harry said awkwardly. He wasn't one of those guys that liked to talk about relationships. Abby inched closer to him. "But why does it always have to be a relationship? Why, at first, can't it just be about the chemistry?" She whispered. Her face was coming closer and closer to Harry's. "But wouldn't that be a bit...awkward?" He asked quietly. "I just want to taste your kiss one more time..." Abby whispered. Their lips locked. Harry felt a surge of happiness as Abby leaned on top of him. They were laying on the couch now, making out. It must have been five minutes before... "Eh hem." Harry quickly sat up. Abby fell backwards onto the couch. Harry scrambled to his feet. Ron was standing beside the couch, smiling. "I thought you didn't want a relationship!" Ron laughed. "I don't." Harry said as he brushed past him. Abby looked thouroughly happy with herself as Harry tried to rub the lipstick off his lips as he climbed the stais.
Harry was standing in front of the mirror in his room, trying to get his lips back to their normal colour, instead of 'Cherry Blossom Blush'. Ron came in, staring at him. "What was that?" He asked. Harry blushed so dark his whole face blended together. "Nothing." He muttered. Ron was smiling as he shook his head. "So you don't want a relationship, but you can make out with her? God, I wish I had your life!" He laughed. Harry's hand twitched. He stopped rubbing his lips and spun around. "No you don't." He said quietly. Ron nodded. "Yeah I do! I mean, come on! You just made out with the hottest girl in thise school...no strings attached!" Ron cried. "Yeah Ron...yeah I did that. But I also have to do something else. Every month. You don't see, you don't know. You don't have to be on the lookout all the time! Stop saying things that aren't true. You do not want my life!" Harry snapped. He pushed past a very stunned Ron and tore from Gryffindor tower. He didn't know where he was going, only that he was suddenly infuriated. He would never have snapped at Ron like that. What was going on?
Harry walked around the cold grounds for a bit, then returned to Gryffindor tower. Ron was sitting at one of the table sorting his Chocolate Frog cards. Harry hesitated, then went up to him. "Ron, I'm really sorry about before. I'm just not in the greatest mood." He explained awkwardly. Ron smiled. "I understand. It's stupid of me to be jealous really, I mean...with everything else you're going through." He said with a shrug. Harry nodded. He sat down and helped Ron sort through his cards. "No, you've got two Merlin's there and only one Salzar Slytherin. Hang on! You've got Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff and Slytherin, but you don't have Gryffindor?" Harry asked, disbelieving. Ron shook his head. "They've only ever made four of each card. Gryffindor is the hardest one to find!" Ron said grumpily. Harry laughed. "What's wrong with you?" Ron asked. "I've got a Gryffindor! I used to have two, but I lost one." Harry said, catching his breath. "Two Gryffindors? Yeah right!" Ron cried. Harry shrugged. He pulled out his wand. "Accio cigar box!" Harry muttered. An old, dusty cigar box came zooming down the stairs. Harry caught it and opened it. Inside were tons of Chocolate Frog cards. There were five in gold wrapping though. Ron pointed these out. "Oh, those are my favourite ones." Harry explained. He dropped pulled the cards out of the wrappers. There was Dumbledore, Gryffindor, Merlin, Quid Ditch and Sirius! "Sirius has his own card?" Ron gasped. "Yeah. Cuz he was the first person to ever escape Azkaban. There are like five thousand cards, but I like it so it's in my favourites. "Who's Quid Ditch?" Ron asked. Harry laughed. "The guy who invented quidditch. Get it? Quid Ditch...quidditch. Not very bright are you?" He laughed. Ron rolled his eyes and picked up the Gryffindor card. "Lucky prat." He muttered. Harry shrugged.
Harry and Ron spent the rest of the day flipping through their cards and trading doubles for ones they didn't have. When the clock on the wall chimed six, they made their way down to dinner. Harry hadn't seen Abby or Hermione almost all day. Ron and Harry seated themselves at the Gryffindor table. The Great Hall was pretty much empty. Harry was a bit surprised to see that there wasn't a head table. "Where are the teachers going to sit then?" Ron asked. Almost as soon as the words had escaped his mouth, Lupin sat down next to Ron. He smiled at the two boys and began to dish up his dinner. "This isn't going to become routine, is it?" Harry asked as he saw Snape enter the Great Hall. Lupin laughed. "Nope. Dumbledore thought it would give the teachers a chance to interact with the students." He explained. Harry nodded. He groaned as Snape made his way over to him. "He's not gonna sit with us, is he?" Ron asked hastily. Harry didn't have time to answer. Snape did sit with them. He seated himself about a foot away from Ron. Snape was wearing a sneer. "Potter...I noticed you were absent at the welcoming feast at the beginning of the year. As well as the first day of October, November and this month. It almost seems to be a pattern." He said, glancing at Ron. "Severus. Don't you think Harry would tell his friends why he is absent? No need to drop water bomb hints." Lupin said coldly. Snape scowled and stalked off.
CHRISTMAS MORNING ****************************************
Harry woke to a pillow in his face. "Wha?" He grumbled. "Presents!" Ron roared. Harry was instantly awake. He pushed his glasses up his nose and bent over the edge of his bed. There was a small pile of parcels. Harry picked up his first one and was about to open it when their dormitory door opened. Hermione and Abby hurried in. "Happy Christmas!" Abby cheered. She threw a gift to each Harry and Ron, then plopped down next to Harry on his bed. Hermione scowled, then seated herself on the floor. Harry tore open his first gift. It was from the Dursley's and you couldn't call it a gift. It was a note. A threatening note.
Boy, Ever come back here again, and they'll have to take you out of here in a box!
Harry shrugged. "Went a bit light didn't he?" He grumbled. Hermione took the note and put it in Harry's bedside table. "Give that to Dumbledore." She said quietly. Abby was staring at Harry in horror. "What was that note all about?" She asked. Harry shook his head. "Nothing." He muttered. He opened the rest of his gifts. He received some Christmas cakes, fudge and a jumper from Mrs Weasley, some rock cakes from Hagrid, a notebook from Sirius, (Harry found this quite odd) they newest version of Quite Quidditch Magazine from Ron, a book about snakes from Hermione (Harry was a little perturbed by this) and something quite unexpected from Abby. A silver chain. On the chain, was a small lightning bolt. "I saw it in Hogsmade...just looked like something you'd have." She said awkwardly. Harry thanked her and put the chain around his neck. While he and his friends chattered, Harry didn't notice the twinge of pain in his scar....
**************************************** Harry, Ron, Hermione and Abby all went down to dinner together. They sat down at the single table that had been set up. Harry sat across from Dumbledore and in between Ron and Abby. Dumbledore smiled and his eyes fell on the chain around Harry's neck. "Interesting charm you have there..." He said quietly. Harry lifted the necklace and held the lightning bolt out. "Yeah, Abby got it for me." He grinned. Dumbledore's eyes flashed to Abby for a minute, then wandered the table. The dinner was quite enjoyable. After everyone was full, they all headed up to Gryffindor tower. Abby jumped on Harry's back and was piggy backed all the way up the stairs. Harry pretended not to notice the jealous look on Hermione's face or the victorious one on Ron's. They all clambered through the portrait hole. Hermione went upstairs to fetch a book, while the rest of them sat down. Abby fetched her small book and began reading it. "What is that anyways?" Harry asked curiously. It looked familiar. "Shakespear's sonnets." Abby said with a small smile. Harry now recognised the book. "I have that! I bought it at a muggle book shop." He said quickly. Abby smiled and read a portion of a sonnet. "Love is too young to know what conscience is, Yet who knows not conscience is born of love? Then, gentle cheater, urge not my amiss, Lest guilty of my faults thy sweet self prove." Abby read. Harry couldn't help it. A smile crossed his face. "Huh?" Ron asked blankly.
Abby finished the sonnet. Ron didn't understand it much, but Harry enjoyed it. Abby flashed him a knowing smile, then continued ready her book. Harry felt something wash over him. Despair...sadness maybe. It was so sudden. He stood up abruptly. "I'm gonna go for a walk." He mumbled. Ron and Abby watched, bewildered as Harry climbed through the portrait hole. He made his way up several spiraling staircases and up to the Astronomy tower. Harry rested his elbows on the ledge as he peered out across the snowy grounds. He was lost. Lost in a world of belonging. He had no home. Right now, he was looking at an orphanage for the summer. Just like Tom Riddle. Harry shook the thought from his head. He was standing there for fiteen minutes when he heard footsteps. He glanced over his shoulder. Abby was standing there. Harry forced a grin. "You're everywhere you're not supposed to be." He said quietly. Abby crossed the tower. She rested a delicate hand on Harry's shoulder. "You shouldn't be alone." She said quietly. Harry glanced at her. Abby was staring at him. Almost right through him. "You don't know that." He said, trying to play it cool. Abby shook her head. "I know more than you think Mr Potter. I'm not stupid you know. You disappear on the last and first day of every month. I know what you are." She said quietly. Harry bit his lip. "I'm not though." He said hastily. Abby nodded. "I know. Otherwise, you'd be gone for more than a few days. You'd be gone for a week." She said. Harry nodded. "Like the first week of school..." Abby said quietly. Harry knew she knew everything. "There is just one thing I don't understand. That letter. That letter from your muggle family. Will you tell me what it was about?" She asked quietly. Harry shook his head. "I can't talk about it. It still hurts." He said quietly. Harry felt a lump develop in his throat. "You poor baby..." Abby whispered. She placed a hand on Harry's cheek and kissed him. When they separated, Harry's eyes were closed. He opened them and peered into Abby's eyes. What were they doing? What was going on between them?
Abby seemed to be thinking the same thing as Harry. She bit her lip and stared into his emerald eyes. Harry didn't know what to do. He had feelings for this mysterious girl, but he had so much else going on in his life. Harry opened hit mouth slowly. "Abby..." He said in barely more than a whisper. Abby closed her eyes. "I know." She said quietly. "You're not ready." She added. Harry sighed. He nodded. They stood there for a minute, staring at each other. "We better get back before Ron thinks we're up to something." Harry said with a small smile. Abby took a deep, quivering breath and nodded. They made their way back down to Gryffindor Tower.
APRIL 11th ****************************************
Harry stood in front of the full length mirror, adjusting his robes. Today was a big day. Today, was Sirius's trial. Harry was due to catch the Hogwarts Express in Hogsmade and arrive at Kings Cross Station. Then, he would make his way to the magical courthouse. Sirius getting a new trial, meant he had to turn himself in. He had spent the past three days in Azkaban. Harry knew this was hard for him. The only way Sirius would agree to turn himself in, was if he was promised a new trial. He had been promised this, so he turned himself in. Harry stared at himself in the mirror. This was as good as it was gonna get. He turned and left the dormitory. Ron and Hermione had given statements, so that they did not have to testify. Anastasia thought the jury would be more convinced if the son of Lily and James Potter, the people Sirius was supposed to have betrayed, gave testimony. Harry said goodbye to all of his friends in the common room. He hugged Abby and Hermione, but Abby a bit more warmly. He said goodbye to them all and headed down to the entrance hall, where he was meeting Dumbledore. Harry walked through the crowd of people gathered at the top of the stairs, and ignored the group of girls following him and giggling. He arrived in the entrance way and was pleased to see Dumbledore waiting. "Are you ready Harry?" He asked quietly. Harry nodded numbly. If Sirius's name wasn't cleared, he'd be sent back to Azkaban with an order for the Dementor's kiss. Harry and Dumbledore climbed into a horseless carriage and started the trek to Hogsmade. Harry stared blankly out the window, saying nothing. "He will be cleared Harry. I promise." Dumbledore said sternly. Harry glanced at him. Dumbledore was not smiling. He was dead serious. Harry nodded, though he didn't truly believe the old man. After about fifteen minutes, they boared the completely empty Hogwarts Express. Harry settled himself against a window and peered out it. If Sirius was cleared, everything would be terrific! Harry wouldn't have to call him Snuffles anymore and Dan Harper would leave him alone. Harper had been bothering Harry alot lately. Bombarding him with questions, trying to surprise Harry into answering. The train chugged along. While Harry stared out the window, Dumbledore stared at Harry. Before him sat a young man, so strong and yet so challenged. He had had to overcome many pains, and was handling them gracefully. Dumbledore prayed with all his heart that Sirius was cleared and that he gained custody of Harry. Then, Harry would have a stable home.
Harry and Dumbledore climbed off the Hogwarts Express and onto Platform 9 3/4. There was a tall man with a trim black suit on. He was wearing a driver's cap. Dumbledore smiled and went over to greet the man. "Pedro!" He grinned. The man turned to Dumbledore. "Albus, so nice to see you again. And you Mr Potter. It is a pleasure." The man said, holding out a gloved hand. Harry reluctantly shook it and followed Pedro and Dumbledore off the platform. Once they got out of the train station, the group came to a black towncar. Pedro opened the back door and Harry and Dumbledore clambered in. Pedro took the front seat and began to drive. Harry said nothing while they made their way to the portkey. He had spent hours going over every detail of that night two years ago. Every detail. The car stopped at a small field. Dumbledore thanked Pedro and gave him a sack full of galleons. He and Harry climbed out of the car and made their way through the field. Dumbledore found an old, broken muggle calculator. He picked it up. "This is the one!" He called to Harry. Harry bustled over to where Dumbledore was and grabbed the calculator. Immediatly, there was a pulling behind his navel. Memories instantly flashed in Harry's mind. The Quidditch World Cup with the Weasleys...and the Triwizard tournament. After a moment, Dumbledore and Harry appeared outside a very tall building. Harry was standing, but just barely. He looked around. There were several tall, official looking buildings. "Where are we?" He asked Dumbledore weakly. "Lawful Lane." Dumbledore said with a smile. "This is where the courthouse and the Ministry of Magic is." He added. Harry nodded. He took a deep quivering breath. Now all he had to do, was testify.
Harry and Dumbledore were led into a room. It was more like a muggle court room than anything else. There were loads of people there. Harry recognised some of them. Lupin smiled at Harry. He had come the day before. The three judges that had come to visit Harry in the hospital (Harper included) appeared and sat at a large bench at the front of the court. The oldest one started rambling on about why they were there. When he was done, he cleared his throat. "Bring in the defendant." He said loudly. Two large doors opened and Sirius was dragged in. He didn't look horrible, but he didn't look good. He smiled weakly at Harry. Harry reluctantly returned it. "First, we will hear from Albus Dumbledore." The judge said. Dumbledore rose from his seat and went over to the witness box. He sat himself down and readied himself to be questioned. The prosecutor asked him many hard questions, but Dumbledore remained calm. Every answer was positive when it came down to it. When Dumbledore was done being questioned, he took his seat beside Harry. "Next, Remus Lupin." The judge called. Lupin sat down in the witness box and fought through the questioning. Finally, the last question came. "Do you believe Sirius Black is guilty?" Anastasia asked. Lupin sighed. "Absolutely not." He said firmly. He left the witness box and returned to his seat. "Now, Mr Harry Potter." The judge called. Harry felt his stomach drop as murmurs went around the room. He stood and slowly walked forwards. He sat down in the witness box. He was extremely nervous. Sirius gave him a reassuring look. The prosecutor started first. "Mr Potter, do you know the defendant?" He asked quietly. Harry nodded. "Y-yes. Th-that's Sirius Black. M-my godfather." Harry said shakily. The prosecutor nodded. "Do you know what he did?" He asked. Harry felt anger rising, but he pushed it down. "He did nothing that he is accused of doing." Harry said firmly, all nervousness gone. "How can you be so sure?" The prosecutor asked curiously. Harry took a deep breath and began to explain all about that night two years ago. Everyone listened carefully. "So...he did not act like an innocent man?" The prosecutor asked after Harry had finished. Harry scowled. "He acted like a man who was betrayed by one of his best friends and made out to be the reason my mother and father were dead." Harry growled. The prosecutor scowled. "You did not answer my question. Mr Black did not act like an innocent man, is that correct?" He asked sharply. "It is impossible for an innocent man to act guilty. So, the only possible answer to that question is no. That is incorrect. He had no other way to act, other than innocent." Harry snapped. Dumbledore smiled happily in the crowd while other people nodded and murmured. After Harry was cross examined by Anastasia, the judges left the court room to decided on Sirius's fate. They returned an our later. The eldest judge stood. "We the judge, jury and executioners of the Ministry of Magic, here by find Sirius Black..." The judge began.
Harry could feel himself shaking uncontrolably. Dumbledore was staring at Harry. This was going to kill him if Sirius wasn't freed. The judge continued. "We hereby find Sirius Black not guilty. He is cleared of all charges and we hope he will accept the court's deepest apologies for having to spend thirteen years in Azkaban." The jusge said. There was a roar of applause from the people in the courtroom. Harry was numb. Sirius was free? Sirius was free! Dumbledore grabbed Harry under the arm and heaved him up. Harry was trying to see his godfather through the mass of people. They made their way out of the chairs and into the middle aisle. Harry spotted Sirius. He was looking over the heads of the crowd for someone. His eyes fell on Harry. Sirius rushed through the crowd of people and wrapped his arms around Harry. Almost everyone had stopped talking and moving to watch the reunion. Harry hugged Sirius back tightly. Dumbledore and Lupin watched happily. When Sirius and Harry separated, they were both smiling. People that were walking by, were both apoloizing and congratulating Sirius. Everyone believed him innocent... because he was. As the courthouse empties, Dumbledore, Lupin, Harry and Sirius left too. There was a mass of reports waiting. Harry noticed that Rita Skeeter was not among them. The reporters swarmed around Harry and Sirius as well as Dumbledore and Lupin. Dumbledore managed to grab Lupin and pull him from the circle. Sirius however, was quite enjoying being free. He draped his arm over Harry's shoulder and began to answer to questions. Harry just smiled. Now all they had to battle, was the custody agreement. Surely they wouldn't send Harry back to the Dursley's, so that left Sirius or a muggle orphanage. After about half an hour, Sirius and Harry pushed their way through the crowd of reporters and met back of with Dumbledore and Lupin. "Sirius, I believe that you deserve a new look..." Dumbledore said, looking Sirius up and down. He waved his wand and Sirius's shabby robes were replaced with brand new black ones. Dumbledore waved his wand again and Sirius's hair was no longer long, but short and clean. He facial hair was also gone. He looked even more like the man that had attended James and Lily's wedding. Harry smiled. Everything was going smoothly. He just didn't know the waves that were about to occur.
To celebrate Sirius's victory, he, Harry, Dumbledore and Lupin went out for lunch. Sirius got a few nervous looks from people, but Dumbledore explained the outcome of the trial. Most people were happy for Sirius. They all sat down around a round table. Sirius couldn't wipe the smile off his face, everyone was so happy with the verdict, they didn't notice that Harry wasn't smiling. In fact, if anything, he looked worried. After they ordered their meals, Dumbledore raised his glass. "To a new life for Sirius..." He began. "...and Harry." He smiled. Everyone nodded and drank from their glass. Dumbledore and Lupin got into a discussion about the Dementors. Sirius listened for a while, then turned back to Harry, the stupid grin still pasted on his face. When he saw Harry's expression, his face fell. "What's wrong?" He asked, his face contorted in confusion. Harry sighed and swirled the liquid that was in his glass. "Nothing." He said quietly. Sirius nudged his shoulder. Harry looked up. His eyes locked with Sirius's. "What's wrong?" Sirius asked more forcefully. Harry sighed and tore his eyes away from Sirius's. "It's nothing, really." He said quietly. Sirius opened his mouth to protest, but the food arrived. Harry's plate of chicken was set in front of him and he, like everyone else, began to eat. As Sirius ate his meal, he glanced at Harry. Something was wrong. Sirius may have only known Harry for two years, but he knew when something was wrong. They finished up their meals, paid and left. They all decided to go for a walk in this lovely park. Harry wrapped his scarf tightly around his neck. It was very cold. Dumbledore and Lupin walked a little ways ahead, continuing their conversation from lunch. Harry and Sirius hung back, walking slower. Sirius kept glancing at Harry, who was looking at his feet when he walked. "Tell me what's wrong." Sirius said quietly. Harry closed his eyes for a minute, then opened them. He continued to stare at his feet. "Nothing's wrong." He said quietly. Sirius sighed. "Harry...I'm your godfather. You're supposed to be able to talk to me!" He said, exasperated. Harry shoved his hands in his pockets and looked up, but not at Sirius. He looked everywhere but at Sirius. Sirius didn't know what was going on. "Are you disappointed with the verdict?" He asked, hoping he knew the answer. "Of course not!" Harry cried angrily. Dumbledore and Lupin glanced back at them. Sirius stopped walking and grabbed Harry's arm. Their eyes locked again. "Then what is it?" He asked harshly. Harry bit his lip. This day was going so well...he didn't want to ruin it. "I think...I think I'm gonna be sent back to the Dursley's." Harry said, his voice shaking. Sirius stared at him. Why did Harry think that?
Sirius stared at Harry and slowly shook his head. "No. No you won't be sent back there." He said sternly. Harry sighed and looked back down at the ground. "Sirius..." He said quietly. "No Harry. I promise you won't go back there." Sirius said harshly. Harry looked up and into Sirius's eyes. "Don't make promises you can't keep." He said quietly. Harry pulled from Sirius's grip and continued walking, leaving Sirius standing there. Harry caught up with Dumbledore and Lupin. He walked silently behind them. Sirius sprinted to the group and walked alongside Harry. "I want to talk about this..." He said quietly, so only Harry could hear. "There's nothing to talk about." Harry sighed. Sirius shook his head. "Yes there is." He said. Harry sighed and his eyes wandered back to his feet... An hour later, the group stopped at a vendor for some drinks. Dumbledore was about to engage Harry in a conversation about quidditch, when Sirius dragged the boy off to a picnic table where they could talk. Dumbledore watched with interest as Sirius started talking very fast to Harry and as Harry shook his head. Sirius was beginning to look very worried. After a couple of minutes, Harry's face dropped into his hands. Sirius ran his fingers through his hair and looked sadly at Harry. Dumbledore wished he knew what the conversation was about. Harry raised his face from his hands. "I'll just have to suck it up and take the beatings." Harry said, his voice shaking. Sirius slammed his fist down on the table. "No!" He yelled. Dumbledore saw this and he heard this. He hurried forward, as did Lupin. Dumbledore dragged a fuming Sirius away from the picnic table. Lupin took his place and began to talk to Harry. Harry wouldn't tell Lupin what he and Sirius were talking about and Sirius wouldn't tell Dumbledore what he and Harry were talking about. "Sirius, you can't be having temper tantrums. Your name was just cleared." Dumbledore said calmly. Sirius sighed angrily. "Look at the boy!" Dumbledore said, pointing to Harry. Sirius looked at Harry. "He's very upset Sirius." Dumbledore said seriously. Sirius sighed. It was obvious Harry was upset. He had his head bowed and his hands holding his head. He was shaking his head slowly. "I know. But, what he said to me...it just made me so angry!" Sirius said. He kicked the nearest tree. "Don't be angry with the boy." Dumbledore said. "I'm not angry with him. It's what he said that made me angry." Sirius explained, exasperated. Dumbledore didn't understand. They just watched Lupin try and force a conversation with Harry.
Harry sat alone in a compartment on the Hogwarts Express. He had abruptly left Sirius, Lupin and Dumbledore who were at the other end of the train. Harry didn't know why, but he was sure he was going to be sent back to the Dursley's. A lump developed in his throat as he remembered the trauma he had been put through. Harry had been sitting by himself for nearly an hour when there was a knock on his compartment door. Harry said nothing and continued staring out the window. The door opened and Sirius appeared. Harry didn't look at him. He couldn't. Sirius sighed, entered the compartment and shut the door. He sat across from Harry's trying to make their eyes lock. After ten minutes, no words had been said. "Harry..." Sirius began quietly. Harry didn't move. He continued to stare out the window. "I won't let anything happen to you." Sirius continued. Harry felt a lump develop in his throat. Still, he said nothing. Sirius sighed. "You're growing up and you're not a child anymore. You're a young man. But, you still need help...protection." He said harshly. Harry wasn't going to look at him. He wasn't going to cave. "Harry..." Sirius said quietly. Harry didn't know why, but he glanced at Sirius. Sirius was staring at Harry. His eyes full of worry and concern. Harry had never known Sirius as a free man, only as a fugitive. Now, he was different. He was gentle, yet strong. The Sirius before was caring and angry. Not gentle. Harry forced a smile. Sirius sighed. He wanted to change the subject. A sly grin crossed his face. "Why don't you tell me about your girlfriend..." He said, his eyes sparkling. Harry blushed. "I don't have a girlfriend." He muttered. Sirius reached forward and grabbed a chain that was tucked under Harry's robes. On the chain, was a silver lightning bolt. "And who gave you this?" He asked, smirking. "Abby." Harry said innocently. He and Abby weren't going out. Sirius raised his eyebrows. "Abby...Keaton?" He asked, his head c0cked to one side. Harry nodded. How did he know her name? "Interesting..." Sirius muttered. "What's interesting?" Harry asked quickly. Sirius shook his head. "Er...nothing." He said hastily. Sirius and Harry spent the rest of the train ride talking about quidditch. Both were avoiding the subject of where Harry would be sent to live. Neither wanted to think about it.
Harry, Lupin and Dumbledore stood in Hogsmade, waiting for their carriage. Sirius rested a hand on Harry's shoulder. "It'll be okay." He said quietly. Harry stared into his blue eyes and nodded weakly. "Even if you are sent back, I won't let anything happen to you." Sirius said forcefully. Harry felt a lump develop in his throat and nodded. Just then, the carriage arrived. They said goodbye to Sirius and Harry headed for the carriage. Sirius grabbed his arm and pulled him round into a hug. Harry smiled weakly as Sirius squeezed the life out of him. When they separated, Sirius looked like he was going to cry. "Oh suck it up!" Harry smiled. He climbed into the carriage. It lurched forwards. Harry watched Sirius until the form disappeared. He sat back down in his seat, opposite Dumbledore and Lupin. They were both smiling at him. Harry didn't meet their eyes. He tilted his head back and closed his eyes. After about ten minutes, the carriage lurched to a stop. Harry, Dumbledore and Sirius clambered out. They all went their separate ways. Harry headed to Gryffindor Tower, while Dumbledore and Lupin headed to the Great Hall. Harry was very happy that Sirius was announced innocent, but really worried about his living arrangments. He came to a stop in front of the Fat Lady. He took a deep breath and muttered the password. As the portrait swung forward, Harry pasted a smile on his face. Hermione and Ron were waiting for him. They took his smile as a sign of good news. "They cleared him?" Ron asked. Harry nodded. Hermione squealed with happiness and wrapped her arms around Harry. Much to Harry's shock, she kissed him...on the lips. It wasn't a passionate kiss, just a peck. Still, Harry was shocked. He felt his heart plummet as he saw Abby on the staircase. She looked crushed. Harry knew he wasn't ready for a relationship, but he had feelings for Abby. He quickly shook Hermione off. Ron was staring at Hermione, shocked. Harry hurried to his dorm. Hermione stared after him, then turned back to Ron. "What?" She asked, noticing Ron's mouth hanging open. "Y-you kissed him!" Ron gasped. Hermione stared at him. "You kissed him! He kissed Abby! Or...Abby kissed him! What are you doing?" Ron yelled. Hermione went very pale. "They're not involved." She said quickly. Ron stared at her. "You've seen the way they look at each other! Honestly Hermione!" Ron said, shaking his head. He stormed up the stairs to his dorm.
****************************************
Harry sat alone in the common room, gazing into the fire. The snowflakes lashed against the frosted window panes. Harry sighed heavely.
"Something wrong?"
Harry glanced over his shoulder. Abby was standing by the portrait hole. Harry forced a smile.
"No, nothing." He said in a tone that was unconvincing. Abby gracefully crossed the room and sat down next to Harry...right next to Harry. Neither said anything for a while. Harry gazed into the fire while Abby gazed at him.
"I notice you spend a lot of time with Hermione..." She said quietly. Harry smiled.
"Yeah...we're just friends though." He said quietly. Abby placed one of her warm, delicate hands on his face. Harry looked at her. She was so beautiful.
"What about us Harry? Are we just friends?" She asked. Harry noticed her leaning in slightly. Their eyes were locked. He didn't say anything. Their lips connected. The kiss lasted about a minute, then they separated. Harry didn't know what to think. Abby smiled and ran a finger over Harry's bottom lip. That kiss felt so right... Abby leaned in again and their lips connected for a second time. This time though, Harry reached a hand up and rested it on her cheek. When they separated, Abby looked both happy and frightened. She backed away a little. Harry stood up.
"I er...was supposed to meet Ron." He said quickly. Abby absent mindedly licked her lips, then nodded. Harry tore through the portrait hole. His mind was flooding with questions. He and Abby were just friends...or were they?
Harry was walking aimlessly around the castle. He didn't know if he wanted a relationship...there was so much going on in his life. He decided that he would go back to the common room and let Abby down easily. It was going to be hard though... Harry returned to the common room. Abby was sitting in front of the fire. She got up and went to greet Harry. Their eyes locked and their faces were inches from each other. "Abby, I was thinking about it..." Harry began. Abby bit her lip. "And I don't really know if I'm ready..." Harry trailed off as he realised Abby's face was coming closer to his own. "For a relationship. I hope you understand." He said in barely more than a whisper. Abby nodded. There was a moment where Harry thought they were going to kiss, but at exactly the same time, they stepped back. Abby blushed and went back to the fire. Harry just climbed the steps to his dorm.
Harry woke the next morning to a nearly empty Gryffindor tower. Only a few people had stayed for the holidays. Ron, Hermione, Harry and Abby were the only Gryffindors. Harry told Ron all about what happened with Abby. "And you told her you didn't want a relationship?" Ron asked, disbelieving. Harry nodded. He didn't want a relationship! That day, there were some snowball fights and they went to visit Hagrid. Hermione seemed to be sticking very close to Harry. Hagrid seemed to notice this. "Are you two..." He began. "No!" Harry said quickly. Hermione's face fell. The rest of the visit was quite sub dued. Ron did something rather unfortunate...he told Hermione what happened between Harry and Abby. Hermione was quite cold to Abby for the rest of the day.
DECEMBER 24TH ****************************************
As Harry did every morning, he sat in the common room, gazing into the fire. Abby came down the girl's dormitory steps and sat down next to him. "Harry?" She asked. Harry glanced at her. "Yeah?" He asked absent mindedly. "I was thinking. Maybe...maybe you didn't think about it hard enough. I mean...us. I think we'd go really well together." Abby said hastily. Harry looked at her. She was being serious. Harry straightened himself and turned to face her. "It's just...I've got so much crap going on and I don't know if now's a good time for a relationship." Harry said awkwardly. He wasn't one of those guys that liked to talk about relationships. Abby inched closer to him. "But why does it always have to be a relationship? Why, at first, can't it just be about the chemistry?" She whispered. Her face was coming closer and closer to Harry's. "But wouldn't that be a bit...awkward?" He asked quietly. "I just want to taste your kiss one more time..." Abby whispered. Their lips locked. Harry felt a surge of happiness as Abby leaned on top of him. They were laying on the couch now, making out. It must have been five minutes before... "Eh hem." Harry quickly sat up. Abby fell backwards onto the couch. Harry scrambled to his feet. Ron was standing beside the couch, smiling. "I thought you didn't want a relationship!" Ron laughed. "I don't." Harry said as he brushed past him. Abby looked thouroughly happy with herself as Harry tried to rub the lipstick off his lips as he climbed the stais.
Harry was standing in front of the mirror in his room, trying to get his lips back to their normal colour, instead of 'Cherry Blossom Blush'. Ron came in, staring at him. "What was that?" He asked. Harry blushed so dark his whole face blended together. "Nothing." He muttered. Ron was smiling as he shook his head. "So you don't want a relationship, but you can make out with her? God, I wish I had your life!" He laughed. Harry's hand twitched. He stopped rubbing his lips and spun around. "No you don't." He said quietly. Ron nodded. "Yeah I do! I mean, come on! You just made out with the hottest girl in thise school...no strings attached!" Ron cried. "Yeah Ron...yeah I did that. But I also have to do something else. Every month. You don't see, you don't know. You don't have to be on the lookout all the time! Stop saying things that aren't true. You do not want my life!" Harry snapped. He pushed past a very stunned Ron and tore from Gryffindor tower. He didn't know where he was going, only that he was suddenly infuriated. He would never have snapped at Ron like that. What was going on?
Harry walked around the cold grounds for a bit, then returned to Gryffindor tower. Ron was sitting at one of the table sorting his Chocolate Frog cards. Harry hesitated, then went up to him. "Ron, I'm really sorry about before. I'm just not in the greatest mood." He explained awkwardly. Ron smiled. "I understand. It's stupid of me to be jealous really, I mean...with everything else you're going through." He said with a shrug. Harry nodded. He sat down and helped Ron sort through his cards. "No, you've got two Merlin's there and only one Salzar Slytherin. Hang on! You've got Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff and Slytherin, but you don't have Gryffindor?" Harry asked, disbelieving. Ron shook his head. "They've only ever made four of each card. Gryffindor is the hardest one to find!" Ron said grumpily. Harry laughed. "What's wrong with you?" Ron asked. "I've got a Gryffindor! I used to have two, but I lost one." Harry said, catching his breath. "Two Gryffindors? Yeah right!" Ron cried. Harry shrugged. He pulled out his wand. "Accio cigar box!" Harry muttered. An old, dusty cigar box came zooming down the stairs. Harry caught it and opened it. Inside were tons of Chocolate Frog cards. There were five in gold wrapping though. Ron pointed these out. "Oh, those are my favourite ones." Harry explained. He dropped pulled the cards out of the wrappers. There was Dumbledore, Gryffindor, Merlin, Quid Ditch and Sirius! "Sirius has his own card?" Ron gasped. "Yeah. Cuz he was the first person to ever escape Azkaban. There are like five thousand cards, but I like it so it's in my favourites. "Who's Quid Ditch?" Ron asked. Harry laughed. "The guy who invented quidditch. Get it? Quid Ditch...quidditch. Not very bright are you?" He laughed. Ron rolled his eyes and picked up the Gryffindor card. "Lucky prat." He muttered. Harry shrugged.
Harry and Ron spent the rest of the day flipping through their cards and trading doubles for ones they didn't have. When the clock on the wall chimed six, they made their way down to dinner. Harry hadn't seen Abby or Hermione almost all day. Ron and Harry seated themselves at the Gryffindor table. The Great Hall was pretty much empty. Harry was a bit surprised to see that there wasn't a head table. "Where are the teachers going to sit then?" Ron asked. Almost as soon as the words had escaped his mouth, Lupin sat down next to Ron. He smiled at the two boys and began to dish up his dinner. "This isn't going to become routine, is it?" Harry asked as he saw Snape enter the Great Hall. Lupin laughed. "Nope. Dumbledore thought it would give the teachers a chance to interact with the students." He explained. Harry nodded. He groaned as Snape made his way over to him. "He's not gonna sit with us, is he?" Ron asked hastily. Harry didn't have time to answer. Snape did sit with them. He seated himself about a foot away from Ron. Snape was wearing a sneer. "Potter...I noticed you were absent at the welcoming feast at the beginning of the year. As well as the first day of October, November and this month. It almost seems to be a pattern." He said, glancing at Ron. "Severus. Don't you think Harry would tell his friends why he is absent? No need to drop water bomb hints." Lupin said coldly. Snape scowled and stalked off.
CHRISTMAS MORNING ****************************************
Harry woke to a pillow in his face. "Wha?" He grumbled. "Presents!" Ron roared. Harry was instantly awake. He pushed his glasses up his nose and bent over the edge of his bed. There was a small pile of parcels. Harry picked up his first one and was about to open it when their dormitory door opened. Hermione and Abby hurried in. "Happy Christmas!" Abby cheered. She threw a gift to each Harry and Ron, then plopped down next to Harry on his bed. Hermione scowled, then seated herself on the floor. Harry tore open his first gift. It was from the Dursley's and you couldn't call it a gift. It was a note. A threatening note.
Boy, Ever come back here again, and they'll have to take you out of here in a box!
Harry shrugged. "Went a bit light didn't he?" He grumbled. Hermione took the note and put it in Harry's bedside table. "Give that to Dumbledore." She said quietly. Abby was staring at Harry in horror. "What was that note all about?" She asked. Harry shook his head. "Nothing." He muttered. He opened the rest of his gifts. He received some Christmas cakes, fudge and a jumper from Mrs Weasley, some rock cakes from Hagrid, a notebook from Sirius, (Harry found this quite odd) they newest version of Quite Quidditch Magazine from Ron, a book about snakes from Hermione (Harry was a little perturbed by this) and something quite unexpected from Abby. A silver chain. On the chain, was a small lightning bolt. "I saw it in Hogsmade...just looked like something you'd have." She said awkwardly. Harry thanked her and put the chain around his neck. While he and his friends chattered, Harry didn't notice the twinge of pain in his scar....
**************************************** Harry, Ron, Hermione and Abby all went down to dinner together. They sat down at the single table that had been set up. Harry sat across from Dumbledore and in between Ron and Abby. Dumbledore smiled and his eyes fell on the chain around Harry's neck. "Interesting charm you have there..." He said quietly. Harry lifted the necklace and held the lightning bolt out. "Yeah, Abby got it for me." He grinned. Dumbledore's eyes flashed to Abby for a minute, then wandered the table. The dinner was quite enjoyable. After everyone was full, they all headed up to Gryffindor tower. Abby jumped on Harry's back and was piggy backed all the way up the stairs. Harry pretended not to notice the jealous look on Hermione's face or the victorious one on Ron's. They all clambered through the portrait hole. Hermione went upstairs to fetch a book, while the rest of them sat down. Abby fetched her small book and began reading it. "What is that anyways?" Harry asked curiously. It looked familiar. "Shakespear's sonnets." Abby said with a small smile. Harry now recognised the book. "I have that! I bought it at a muggle book shop." He said quickly. Abby smiled and read a portion of a sonnet. "Love is too young to know what conscience is, Yet who knows not conscience is born of love? Then, gentle cheater, urge not my amiss, Lest guilty of my faults thy sweet self prove." Abby read. Harry couldn't help it. A smile crossed his face. "Huh?" Ron asked blankly.
Abby finished the sonnet. Ron didn't understand it much, but Harry enjoyed it. Abby flashed him a knowing smile, then continued ready her book. Harry felt something wash over him. Despair...sadness maybe. It was so sudden. He stood up abruptly. "I'm gonna go for a walk." He mumbled. Ron and Abby watched, bewildered as Harry climbed through the portrait hole. He made his way up several spiraling staircases and up to the Astronomy tower. Harry rested his elbows on the ledge as he peered out across the snowy grounds. He was lost. Lost in a world of belonging. He had no home. Right now, he was looking at an orphanage for the summer. Just like Tom Riddle. Harry shook the thought from his head. He was standing there for fiteen minutes when he heard footsteps. He glanced over his shoulder. Abby was standing there. Harry forced a grin. "You're everywhere you're not supposed to be." He said quietly. Abby crossed the tower. She rested a delicate hand on Harry's shoulder. "You shouldn't be alone." She said quietly. Harry glanced at her. Abby was staring at him. Almost right through him. "You don't know that." He said, trying to play it cool. Abby shook her head. "I know more than you think Mr Potter. I'm not stupid you know. You disappear on the last and first day of every month. I know what you are." She said quietly. Harry bit his lip. "I'm not though." He said hastily. Abby nodded. "I know. Otherwise, you'd be gone for more than a few days. You'd be gone for a week." She said. Harry nodded. "Like the first week of school..." Abby said quietly. Harry knew she knew everything. "There is just one thing I don't understand. That letter. That letter from your muggle family. Will you tell me what it was about?" She asked quietly. Harry shook his head. "I can't talk about it. It still hurts." He said quietly. Harry felt a lump develop in his throat. "You poor baby..." Abby whispered. She placed a hand on Harry's cheek and kissed him. When they separated, Harry's eyes were closed. He opened them and peered into Abby's eyes. What were they doing? What was going on between them?
Abby seemed to be thinking the same thing as Harry. She bit her lip and stared into his emerald eyes. Harry didn't know what to do. He had feelings for this mysterious girl, but he had so much else going on in his life. Harry opened hit mouth slowly. "Abby..." He said in barely more than a whisper. Abby closed her eyes. "I know." She said quietly. "You're not ready." She added. Harry sighed. He nodded. They stood there for a minute, staring at each other. "We better get back before Ron thinks we're up to something." Harry said with a small smile. Abby took a deep, quivering breath and nodded. They made their way back down to Gryffindor Tower.
APRIL 11th ****************************************
Harry stood in front of the full length mirror, adjusting his robes. Today was a big day. Today, was Sirius's trial. Harry was due to catch the Hogwarts Express in Hogsmade and arrive at Kings Cross Station. Then, he would make his way to the magical courthouse. Sirius getting a new trial, meant he had to turn himself in. He had spent the past three days in Azkaban. Harry knew this was hard for him. The only way Sirius would agree to turn himself in, was if he was promised a new trial. He had been promised this, so he turned himself in. Harry stared at himself in the mirror. This was as good as it was gonna get. He turned and left the dormitory. Ron and Hermione had given statements, so that they did not have to testify. Anastasia thought the jury would be more convinced if the son of Lily and James Potter, the people Sirius was supposed to have betrayed, gave testimony. Harry said goodbye to all of his friends in the common room. He hugged Abby and Hermione, but Abby a bit more warmly. He said goodbye to them all and headed down to the entrance hall, where he was meeting Dumbledore. Harry walked through the crowd of people gathered at the top of the stairs, and ignored the group of girls following him and giggling. He arrived in the entrance way and was pleased to see Dumbledore waiting. "Are you ready Harry?" He asked quietly. Harry nodded numbly. If Sirius's name wasn't cleared, he'd be sent back to Azkaban with an order for the Dementor's kiss. Harry and Dumbledore climbed into a horseless carriage and started the trek to Hogsmade. Harry stared blankly out the window, saying nothing. "He will be cleared Harry. I promise." Dumbledore said sternly. Harry glanced at him. Dumbledore was not smiling. He was dead serious. Harry nodded, though he didn't truly believe the old man. After about fifteen minutes, they boared the completely empty Hogwarts Express. Harry settled himself against a window and peered out it. If Sirius was cleared, everything would be terrific! Harry wouldn't have to call him Snuffles anymore and Dan Harper would leave him alone. Harper had been bothering Harry alot lately. Bombarding him with questions, trying to surprise Harry into answering. The train chugged along. While Harry stared out the window, Dumbledore stared at Harry. Before him sat a young man, so strong and yet so challenged. He had had to overcome many pains, and was handling them gracefully. Dumbledore prayed with all his heart that Sirius was cleared and that he gained custody of Harry. Then, Harry would have a stable home.
Harry and Dumbledore climbed off the Hogwarts Express and onto Platform 9 3/4. There was a tall man with a trim black suit on. He was wearing a driver's cap. Dumbledore smiled and went over to greet the man. "Pedro!" He grinned. The man turned to Dumbledore. "Albus, so nice to see you again. And you Mr Potter. It is a pleasure." The man said, holding out a gloved hand. Harry reluctantly shook it and followed Pedro and Dumbledore off the platform. Once they got out of the train station, the group came to a black towncar. Pedro opened the back door and Harry and Dumbledore clambered in. Pedro took the front seat and began to drive. Harry said nothing while they made their way to the portkey. He had spent hours going over every detail of that night two years ago. Every detail. The car stopped at a small field. Dumbledore thanked Pedro and gave him a sack full of galleons. He and Harry climbed out of the car and made their way through the field. Dumbledore found an old, broken muggle calculator. He picked it up. "This is the one!" He called to Harry. Harry bustled over to where Dumbledore was and grabbed the calculator. Immediatly, there was a pulling behind his navel. Memories instantly flashed in Harry's mind. The Quidditch World Cup with the Weasleys...and the Triwizard tournament. After a moment, Dumbledore and Harry appeared outside a very tall building. Harry was standing, but just barely. He looked around. There were several tall, official looking buildings. "Where are we?" He asked Dumbledore weakly. "Lawful Lane." Dumbledore said with a smile. "This is where the courthouse and the Ministry of Magic is." He added. Harry nodded. He took a deep quivering breath. Now all he had to do, was testify.
Harry and Dumbledore were led into a room. It was more like a muggle court room than anything else. There were loads of people there. Harry recognised some of them. Lupin smiled at Harry. He had come the day before. The three judges that had come to visit Harry in the hospital (Harper included) appeared and sat at a large bench at the front of the court. The oldest one started rambling on about why they were there. When he was done, he cleared his throat. "Bring in the defendant." He said loudly. Two large doors opened and Sirius was dragged in. He didn't look horrible, but he didn't look good. He smiled weakly at Harry. Harry reluctantly returned it. "First, we will hear from Albus Dumbledore." The judge said. Dumbledore rose from his seat and went over to the witness box. He sat himself down and readied himself to be questioned. The prosecutor asked him many hard questions, but Dumbledore remained calm. Every answer was positive when it came down to it. When Dumbledore was done being questioned, he took his seat beside Harry. "Next, Remus Lupin." The judge called. Lupin sat down in the witness box and fought through the questioning. Finally, the last question came. "Do you believe Sirius Black is guilty?" Anastasia asked. Lupin sighed. "Absolutely not." He said firmly. He left the witness box and returned to his seat. "Now, Mr Harry Potter." The judge called. Harry felt his stomach drop as murmurs went around the room. He stood and slowly walked forwards. He sat down in the witness box. He was extremely nervous. Sirius gave him a reassuring look. The prosecutor started first. "Mr Potter, do you know the defendant?" He asked quietly. Harry nodded. "Y-yes. Th-that's Sirius Black. M-my godfather." Harry said shakily. The prosecutor nodded. "Do you know what he did?" He asked. Harry felt anger rising, but he pushed it down. "He did nothing that he is accused of doing." Harry said firmly, all nervousness gone. "How can you be so sure?" The prosecutor asked curiously. Harry took a deep breath and began to explain all about that night two years ago. Everyone listened carefully. "So...he did not act like an innocent man?" The prosecutor asked after Harry had finished. Harry scowled. "He acted like a man who was betrayed by one of his best friends and made out to be the reason my mother and father were dead." Harry growled. The prosecutor scowled. "You did not answer my question. Mr Black did not act like an innocent man, is that correct?" He asked sharply. "It is impossible for an innocent man to act guilty. So, the only possible answer to that question is no. That is incorrect. He had no other way to act, other than innocent." Harry snapped. Dumbledore smiled happily in the crowd while other people nodded and murmured. After Harry was cross examined by Anastasia, the judges left the court room to decided on Sirius's fate. They returned an our later. The eldest judge stood. "We the judge, jury and executioners of the Ministry of Magic, here by find Sirius Black..." The judge began.
Harry could feel himself shaking uncontrolably. Dumbledore was staring at Harry. This was going to kill him if Sirius wasn't freed. The judge continued. "We hereby find Sirius Black not guilty. He is cleared of all charges and we hope he will accept the court's deepest apologies for having to spend thirteen years in Azkaban." The jusge said. There was a roar of applause from the people in the courtroom. Harry was numb. Sirius was free? Sirius was free! Dumbledore grabbed Harry under the arm and heaved him up. Harry was trying to see his godfather through the mass of people. They made their way out of the chairs and into the middle aisle. Harry spotted Sirius. He was looking over the heads of the crowd for someone. His eyes fell on Harry. Sirius rushed through the crowd of people and wrapped his arms around Harry. Almost everyone had stopped talking and moving to watch the reunion. Harry hugged Sirius back tightly. Dumbledore and Lupin watched happily. When Sirius and Harry separated, they were both smiling. People that were walking by, were both apoloizing and congratulating Sirius. Everyone believed him innocent... because he was. As the courthouse empties, Dumbledore, Lupin, Harry and Sirius left too. There was a mass of reports waiting. Harry noticed that Rita Skeeter was not among them. The reporters swarmed around Harry and Sirius as well as Dumbledore and Lupin. Dumbledore managed to grab Lupin and pull him from the circle. Sirius however, was quite enjoying being free. He draped his arm over Harry's shoulder and began to answer to questions. Harry just smiled. Now all they had to battle, was the custody agreement. Surely they wouldn't send Harry back to the Dursley's, so that left Sirius or a muggle orphanage. After about half an hour, Sirius and Harry pushed their way through the crowd of reporters and met back of with Dumbledore and Lupin. "Sirius, I believe that you deserve a new look..." Dumbledore said, looking Sirius up and down. He waved his wand and Sirius's shabby robes were replaced with brand new black ones. Dumbledore waved his wand again and Sirius's hair was no longer long, but short and clean. He facial hair was also gone. He looked even more like the man that had attended James and Lily's wedding. Harry smiled. Everything was going smoothly. He just didn't know the waves that were about to occur.
To celebrate Sirius's victory, he, Harry, Dumbledore and Lupin went out for lunch. Sirius got a few nervous looks from people, but Dumbledore explained the outcome of the trial. Most people were happy for Sirius. They all sat down around a round table. Sirius couldn't wipe the smile off his face, everyone was so happy with the verdict, they didn't notice that Harry wasn't smiling. In fact, if anything, he looked worried. After they ordered their meals, Dumbledore raised his glass. "To a new life for Sirius..." He began. "...and Harry." He smiled. Everyone nodded and drank from their glass. Dumbledore and Lupin got into a discussion about the Dementors. Sirius listened for a while, then turned back to Harry, the stupid grin still pasted on his face. When he saw Harry's expression, his face fell. "What's wrong?" He asked, his face contorted in confusion. Harry sighed and swirled the liquid that was in his glass. "Nothing." He said quietly. Sirius nudged his shoulder. Harry looked up. His eyes locked with Sirius's. "What's wrong?" Sirius asked more forcefully. Harry sighed and tore his eyes away from Sirius's. "It's nothing, really." He said quietly. Sirius opened his mouth to protest, but the food arrived. Harry's plate of chicken was set in front of him and he, like everyone else, began to eat. As Sirius ate his meal, he glanced at Harry. Something was wrong. Sirius may have only known Harry for two years, but he knew when something was wrong. They finished up their meals, paid and left. They all decided to go for a walk in this lovely park. Harry wrapped his scarf tightly around his neck. It was very cold. Dumbledore and Lupin walked a little ways ahead, continuing their conversation from lunch. Harry and Sirius hung back, walking slower. Sirius kept glancing at Harry, who was looking at his feet when he walked. "Tell me what's wrong." Sirius said quietly. Harry closed his eyes for a minute, then opened them. He continued to stare at his feet. "Nothing's wrong." He said quietly. Sirius sighed. "Harry...I'm your godfather. You're supposed to be able to talk to me!" He said, exasperated. Harry shoved his hands in his pockets and looked up, but not at Sirius. He looked everywhere but at Sirius. Sirius didn't know what was going on. "Are you disappointed with the verdict?" He asked, hoping he knew the answer. "Of course not!" Harry cried angrily. Dumbledore and Lupin glanced back at them. Sirius stopped walking and grabbed Harry's arm. Their eyes locked again. "Then what is it?" He asked harshly. Harry bit his lip. This day was going so well...he didn't want to ruin it. "I think...I think I'm gonna be sent back to the Dursley's." Harry said, his voice shaking. Sirius stared at him. Why did Harry think that?
Sirius stared at Harry and slowly shook his head. "No. No you won't be sent back there." He said sternly. Harry sighed and looked back down at the ground. "Sirius..." He said quietly. "No Harry. I promise you won't go back there." Sirius said harshly. Harry looked up and into Sirius's eyes. "Don't make promises you can't keep." He said quietly. Harry pulled from Sirius's grip and continued walking, leaving Sirius standing there. Harry caught up with Dumbledore and Lupin. He walked silently behind them. Sirius sprinted to the group and walked alongside Harry. "I want to talk about this..." He said quietly, so only Harry could hear. "There's nothing to talk about." Harry sighed. Sirius shook his head. "Yes there is." He said. Harry sighed and his eyes wandered back to his feet... An hour later, the group stopped at a vendor for some drinks. Dumbledore was about to engage Harry in a conversation about quidditch, when Sirius dragged the boy off to a picnic table where they could talk. Dumbledore watched with interest as Sirius started talking very fast to Harry and as Harry shook his head. Sirius was beginning to look very worried. After a couple of minutes, Harry's face dropped into his hands. Sirius ran his fingers through his hair and looked sadly at Harry. Dumbledore wished he knew what the conversation was about. Harry raised his face from his hands. "I'll just have to suck it up and take the beatings." Harry said, his voice shaking. Sirius slammed his fist down on the table. "No!" He yelled. Dumbledore saw this and he heard this. He hurried forward, as did Lupin. Dumbledore dragged a fuming Sirius away from the picnic table. Lupin took his place and began to talk to Harry. Harry wouldn't tell Lupin what he and Sirius were talking about and Sirius wouldn't tell Dumbledore what he and Harry were talking about. "Sirius, you can't be having temper tantrums. Your name was just cleared." Dumbledore said calmly. Sirius sighed angrily. "Look at the boy!" Dumbledore said, pointing to Harry. Sirius looked at Harry. "He's very upset Sirius." Dumbledore said seriously. Sirius sighed. It was obvious Harry was upset. He had his head bowed and his hands holding his head. He was shaking his head slowly. "I know. But, what he said to me...it just made me so angry!" Sirius said. He kicked the nearest tree. "Don't be angry with the boy." Dumbledore said. "I'm not angry with him. It's what he said that made me angry." Sirius explained, exasperated. Dumbledore didn't understand. They just watched Lupin try and force a conversation with Harry.
Harry sat alone in a compartment on the Hogwarts Express. He had abruptly left Sirius, Lupin and Dumbledore who were at the other end of the train. Harry didn't know why, but he was sure he was going to be sent back to the Dursley's. A lump developed in his throat as he remembered the trauma he had been put through. Harry had been sitting by himself for nearly an hour when there was a knock on his compartment door. Harry said nothing and continued staring out the window. The door opened and Sirius appeared. Harry didn't look at him. He couldn't. Sirius sighed, entered the compartment and shut the door. He sat across from Harry's trying to make their eyes lock. After ten minutes, no words had been said. "Harry..." Sirius began quietly. Harry didn't move. He continued to stare out the window. "I won't let anything happen to you." Sirius continued. Harry felt a lump develop in his throat. Still, he said nothing. Sirius sighed. "You're growing up and you're not a child anymore. You're a young man. But, you still need help...protection." He said harshly. Harry wasn't going to look at him. He wasn't going to cave. "Harry..." Sirius said quietly. Harry didn't know why, but he glanced at Sirius. Sirius was staring at Harry. His eyes full of worry and concern. Harry had never known Sirius as a free man, only as a fugitive. Now, he was different. He was gentle, yet strong. The Sirius before was caring and angry. Not gentle. Harry forced a smile. Sirius sighed. He wanted to change the subject. A sly grin crossed his face. "Why don't you tell me about your girlfriend..." He said, his eyes sparkling. Harry blushed. "I don't have a girlfriend." He muttered. Sirius reached forward and grabbed a chain that was tucked under Harry's robes. On the chain, was a silver lightning bolt. "And who gave you this?" He asked, smirking. "Abby." Harry said innocently. He and Abby weren't going out. Sirius raised his eyebrows. "Abby...Keaton?" He asked, his head c0cked to one side. Harry nodded. How did he know her name? "Interesting..." Sirius muttered. "What's interesting?" Harry asked quickly. Sirius shook his head. "Er...nothing." He said hastily. Sirius and Harry spent the rest of the train ride talking about quidditch. Both were avoiding the subject of where Harry would be sent to live. Neither wanted to think about it.
Harry, Lupin and Dumbledore stood in Hogsmade, waiting for their carriage. Sirius rested a hand on Harry's shoulder. "It'll be okay." He said quietly. Harry stared into his blue eyes and nodded weakly. "Even if you are sent back, I won't let anything happen to you." Sirius said forcefully. Harry felt a lump develop in his throat and nodded. Just then, the carriage arrived. They said goodbye to Sirius and Harry headed for the carriage. Sirius grabbed his arm and pulled him round into a hug. Harry smiled weakly as Sirius squeezed the life out of him. When they separated, Sirius looked like he was going to cry. "Oh suck it up!" Harry smiled. He climbed into the carriage. It lurched forwards. Harry watched Sirius until the form disappeared. He sat back down in his seat, opposite Dumbledore and Lupin. They were both smiling at him. Harry didn't meet their eyes. He tilted his head back and closed his eyes. After about ten minutes, the carriage lurched to a stop. Harry, Dumbledore and Sirius clambered out. They all went their separate ways. Harry headed to Gryffindor Tower, while Dumbledore and Lupin headed to the Great Hall. Harry was very happy that Sirius was announced innocent, but really worried about his living arrangments. He came to a stop in front of the Fat Lady. He took a deep breath and muttered the password. As the portrait swung forward, Harry pasted a smile on his face. Hermione and Ron were waiting for him. They took his smile as a sign of good news. "They cleared him?" Ron asked. Harry nodded. Hermione squealed with happiness and wrapped her arms around Harry. Much to Harry's shock, she kissed him...on the lips. It wasn't a passionate kiss, just a peck. Still, Harry was shocked. He felt his heart plummet as he saw Abby on the staircase. She looked crushed. Harry knew he wasn't ready for a relationship, but he had feelings for Abby. He quickly shook Hermione off. Ron was staring at Hermione, shocked. Harry hurried to his dorm. Hermione stared after him, then turned back to Ron. "What?" She asked, noticing Ron's mouth hanging open. "Y-you kissed him!" Ron gasped. Hermione stared at him. "You kissed him! He kissed Abby! Or...Abby kissed him! What are you doing?" Ron yelled. Hermione went very pale. "They're not involved." She said quickly. Ron stared at her. "You've seen the way they look at each other! Honestly Hermione!" Ron said, shaking his head. He stormed up the stairs to his dorm.