Ministry of Magic – Head Auror Office
Harry was now going over the reports of the day. After buying something for the "double date" — a bottle of wine to lessen the stress of talking later— and getting chastised by Daphne for not remembering about it when she…
"I explicitly told you about it earlier!"
Harry tried to defend himself, but Daphne simply huffed and proceeded to the counter. Harry had to quickly stride to the counter and placed his muggle card. That sparked another glare from Daphne, but she did comment about it anymore. They walked to the Ministry together, garnering yet another set of murmurs and eyes.
You would think they'd let us up by now. Harry thought as he set aside papers that he finished checking. He walked Daphne to her department and bid to see her later. Thankfully there were no unexpected kisses and Harry was able to come back to the Headquarters with no problems.
He flipped one paper to read, and it was from one of the Aurors guarding the facility in Azkaban where Cole was assigned. He looked at his wristwatch and noticed it was 4:45 in the afternoon already. There was still time to go over the report before Daphne would chastise him again for being late.
… Prisoner Cole from cell D3 kept asking for reconsideration of his case and that he was imprisoned unfairly… requested for talking to some people within a private cell… tried to bribe…
Harry rubbed his chin with his hand and thought deeply about what Cole was up to and whether it had to do with anything happening in his home. There were so many things that had to be considered, stemming from Cole himself to the connections he has. From what Harry had gathered before Cole himself was not connected to past Death Eater activities, his family, on the other hand, was suspected to fund their activities.
Though there wasn't enough evidence to incriminate them… just enough to confiscate their vaults…
Harry looked at his watch again before he could get lost in thought and miss the time again. It was now 4:55 so Harry quickly shrunk the remaining reports and shoved them into his moleskin pouch before heading out of the office and getting Daphne from hers.
"Sir, there are some papers the DMLE head wanted you to go over," Towler said as he approached Harry.
"Just owl them to me Tim, I have some appointment tonight so I can't stay up late," Harry said as the two walked towards the exit, with a few Aurors sending their regards to Harry. He could care less about Michaels' invitation and urging, he was sure it was one of the papers the head wanted him to go over
"Getting ready for a date, sir?" Towler commented with a smile. Harry just gave an exasperated breath before jogging to the Prosecutor's Department. Thankfully they were on the same floor, so Harry didn't have to stress over the full lifts.
He arrived at exactly 5:00 p.m. and he had to quickly collect his breath before knocking on the door. The same assistant greeted Harry and was quick to find Daphne as soon as Harry asked for her.
People around the Prosecutor's office also glanced at Harry and others pushing their colleagues toward him. The department was much smaller compared to the Auror Headquarters; the space was also small— enough for people to move around but not enough to provide individual office space to each employee.
"Hello, Head Auror" one lady idly said, and Harry simply gave her a curt nod before focusing back and waiting for Daphne.
From Harry's peripheral, he could see those two whispering and giggle with still lightly shoving each other. He felt uncomfortable and was praying to Merlin and any gods listening to make Daphne come faster and get out of the Ministry.
He tried to look around and decided the wall away from the two ladies was interesting— with its pail beige wall that had no design of magical painting whatsoever.
He could still hear some giggling and their voice closing him. He internally groaned as one of them called him again.
"Mr. Potte-"she was cut off as Harry heard tacking on heels nearing them. Harry lifted his head and saw Daphne approaching them with a sweet smile.
Harry Potter was about to witness Daphne Greengrass in action. Her smile was indicative enough as he had noticed it every single time whenever she was in hearing, she was about to corner a prey.
Thank Merlin.
"Dear!" Daphne greeted enthusiastically and opened her lightly opened her arms for a hug. Harry immediately opened his and let in Daphne's smaller frame to hug— albeit it was a bit awkward on his part, but they had to give a convincing show.
Harry was careful to not really hug her too tight or too much loose or it would be suspicious. He wasn't really used to hugs. The hugs he had were limited to a few people. Half of them crushed his breath with their tightness, and others just enough not to make him uncomfortable. Daphne's hug was stiff, but it made sure to hold him gently. Her arms were under his with light tapping on his back.
"Your eyes really fascinate me" Daphne whispered softly in Harry's ear.
"Yeah, me too" Harry whispered back and the two let go of their hug. Daphne gave him a quick kiss on the cheek. Harry couldn't help but feel embarrassed as he kissed Daphne's forehead.
"Where's the wine for the date later?" Daphne asked as she looked around Harry. He patted his coat and smiled at her.
"Safely tucked in my coat, don't worry" Harry assured her, and he offered his hand to take Daphne's bag. She smiled and gave him the bag. Daphne's eyes then met with the two ladies, who now wore face-splitting grins, while looking at the two.
"What are you doing here, you two?" Daphne asked as she raised her brow at the ladies. Her hand grasped Harry's own. He took hold of her hand and watched amusedly as the two immediately looked nervous.
How intimidating is she around her department? Harry thought playfully as the two looked at each other and nudging which of them should face the mighty inquisition of Prosecutor Greengrass.
"Uhm, Prosecutor Greengrass, we… Uhm, we were just thinking of asking Mr. Potter… how, Uhm, how you ended up together… that's all" the other lady said as she avoided Daphne's eyes.
"I'm so sorry Mr. Potter if we made you feel uncomfortable earlier" the one who tried to talk to him earlier apologized. Harry just smiled and shook his head.
"It's ok, I just didn't know what you ask and I'm really great with strangers" Harry explained to assure the two. The ladies beamed and bowed their heads to both. The two then exited the Ministry hand in hand not minding the stares and murmurs. Their feet carried them to now almost full lift. The people inside the lift eyed them like a predator to prey that Harry had instinctively squeezed Daphne's hand. She squeezed back and pulled him towards the stairs.
"Bloody hell, I thought we were about to get pounced there" Harry muttered as they walked down the stairs of the Ministry. It was quite lengthy and small considering only a few used this than the lifts.
"Yeah, makes you think how much of a big of a deal two people 'dating'" Daphne filled in with an emphasis on the last word. Harry chuckled at her joke and the two reached the ground floor of the Ministry.
They had agreed with Theo and Hermione they would headfirst to a muggle restaurant near Leaky before heading to Hermione's pad— which was also practically Theo's residence since he barely went back to his own residence, preferring being with Hermione for the reason, 'It lessens the nightmares'.
As they were about to exit the Ministry, they noticed a group of reporters standing by and looking for each Ministry employee that came out. There was even one looking out at the floo system. Harry groaned; he wasn't expecting them to flock to him at the Ministry.
"Let's use the back entrance," Harry said and tried to pull Daphne, but she was immovable. She had this stern look on her face as she scanned the area where the reporters stayed.
"No, it's time you put in your foot when it comes to these vultures" Daphne stated in a serious voice. Then she looked at him and gave him a mischievous smile that made Harry's heartbeat faster— he was nervous about whatever Daphne Greengrass had set in store for them.
"Besides, it's time you get some upside of this arrangement Potter" she whispered and winked at him. Harry gulped as they walked toward the numerous reporters waiting to attack them.
Ministry Atrium
Daphne was sure she would enjoy what she was about to do. She was aware of Harry's 'little' press problem. It was no wonder that the man avoided being in the open if he could help it.
Daphne may not know much about Potter, but she knew they shared something in common and agreed even.
They valued their privacy and hated when people dabbed their noses in their business.
Daphne walked confidently in the direction of the reporters with Harry on her side. She glanced at him and saw he was keeping his face neutral while gripping her hand. Yet, despite his nervousness, his hand wasn't gripping hers too tightly and was still mindful of it.
For someone who defeated a Dark Lord, Potter is really gentle.
As soon as the reporters spotted them, they started to flock to the entrance of the Ministry like a moth to a flame. The Auror assigned had to back them off and formed a barrier to stop them from stampeding.
Daphne looked at them with disgust before stepping closer. She let go of Harry's hand and pulled her wand from its holster. Their voices all shouting and annoying her eardrums as they called in some questions.
"Miss Greengrass did you use a love potion to ensnare Harry Potter?!"
"Mr. Potter, what can you say about this issue of Greengrass using you for your family name?!"
"How did Ms. Greengrass catch the attention of the Most Eligible Wizard?!"
"Some sources say that Mr. Potter accidentally impregnated you, Ms. Greengrass, how true is this?!"
Those were only a few of the various questions shouted at their faces. Daphne could feel her anger rising at the absurdity of some questions. To accuse that to her, an heiress of one of the ancient and most noble houses in their society was already enough to give them Wizengamot trial.
How dare they?! Daphne silently seethed as she used her Occlumency shields to keep her face neutral.
After a few moments, she raised her wand and released a loud bang to get everyone's attention. She smiled to herself as she saw their attention was fully on her.
That's right, you better listen to me and realize who's the one pulling the strings.
She placed her wand to her throat and applied a Sonorus charm so everyone within the vicinity could hear her. It was now time to make a statement to these idiots and arse who they were dealing with.
"Hello everyone. It is clear that you know my name and my relationship with Harry Potter" she pointed at Harry who nodded his head, not showing any confusion about where Daphne was heading.
"I would really like it if you would respect our privacy and not hound us in the entrance of the Ministry where numerous Ministry employees use. You are disrupting a public facility and building. In fact, this enough for the Ministry to fine or put you on trial even" Daphne stated and was satisfied with how their faces cringed with their stupidity. She still wasn't finished though.
"Add to that, continue to harass Harry Potter and you will be expecting an owl from Verdant Law by the next day with a complaint against violation of privacy and harassment" she added and almost smiled with glee at how some of their faces paled.
Verdant Law was one of the most notorious firms in the Magical Community. Not only do they have the best solicitors but the success rate of each of them was sure to provide its clients foolproof and more than half the possibility of being successful in the field they hire them in.
It also added to the fact that it was one of the law firms under the House Greengrass various businesses.
Daphne was sure they would now let them up and give them space, she needed to get this out too.
"Lastly, to those who have sent me some 'wonderful' packages. If I were you, I would be expecting summons from both the Auror Office and my solicitors" Daphne calmly stated before canceling the charm. Her hand was instantly grasped by Harry.
The Auror looked at Harry for further instructions on what to do. Harry looked around and gave the Auror a nod and told him to lift the barriers. The reporters stood aside as the two walked past them hand and hand. Before they could go and apparate, Harry turned around and spoke.
"You heard the boss, you better listen"
Then the two apparated away as they reached a secluded corner away from muggle and magical eye alike.
Muggle London
"That was a cool performance," Harry said as they arrived at a secluded corner in Muggle London. Daphne gave him a smile as the two walked hand in hand towards the bustling street of the city.
A lot of people were walking around, and some bars and pubs were starting to get filled. Daphne simply shrugged and had a smug grin on her face as she faced Harry.
"Oh, it's nothing Potter" Daphne shrugged her shoulder as if what she had done was a walk along the park. Harry shook his head considering Daphne had just metaphorically placed a wand on those people's arse with a spell on its tip.
"Just imagine what I would do with something" Daphne continued as they reached the sidewalk. Harry chuckled with her quip while agreeing to her statement. He was used to seeing her in action during trials and hearings, but it never failed to amaze him how she could corner them up and saddle them towards Azkaban.
"Looking forward to it, Prosecutor Greengrass" Harry replied as they prepared to cross the street with bust cars passing by it. He immediately changed their position and made sure he was standing where the car's direction was coming.
"You better up your game then, Head Auror Potter" Daphne teased as they crossed the road heading to the restaurant Theo and Hermione suggested.
Muggle London – The Garden
Daphne already knew about the restaurant— The Garden— she sometimes came to this place, especially when meeting with her best friend, Tracey Davis. The restaurant was nothing too extravagant, it was simple and fancy, to which Daphne approved.
Harry entered after her and the two went to the desk and asked for a reservation in the name of Theodore Nott.
"This way Madame and Sir, though Mr. Nott and his company have still not arrived yet," the man said and lead them to a table of four at a secluded area in the back. The two thanked the man and asked for some water while waiting for their friends.
"Thank you," Harry said while Daphne just nodded her head at him. The man left them to fetch their drinks. Daphne settled onto her thoughts and started to think more about her problem. She was aware that this arrangement she had entered herself was simply a buffer to the impending problem she and her father faced.
Does mother know? Does Tori know? Is Draco aware of this? Questions ran inside Daphne's mind, and she silently chastised herself for rushing out instead of getting clear and more information from her father. She was raised better than letting her emotions control her. Daphne was now thinking about how she could introduce her supposed boyfriend of 5 months when she dumbfoundedly accepted the stack of contracts from her father.
What was I supposed to do? Stand there calmly as my heirship and family legacy slowly slips through my fingers due to Malfoy pressuring my father?! Daphne reasoned with herself that her reaction was understandable. Still, a small voice in her head chastised her that despite that situation she should've done better.
There was also the fact that she still must formulate a plan that would ensure that Greengrass' inheritance would fall onto her. This fake relationship with Potter only served as a respite and protection for her. At the moment, no one wanted to mess with Potter.
Unless it was his privacy, The Prophet seems to harass him, and Potter is too much of a saint to take action against them.
There was a knock on the table and Daphne was snapped out of her thinking. She looked up and saw Harry point his head to the approaching waiter who had their water. The two gave their thanks to him before he went away.
"Are you ok?" Harry asked as Daphne sipped some of her water.
"Yes, why do you ask?" Daphne questioned after having a drink and putting her glass down.
"You just looked deep in thought, and I thought something was bothering you" Harry answered. "By the way, here's the list of names from the packages you gave earlier" he continued and grabbed a piece of parchment from his coat and handed it to Daphne.
"Thank you, Potter," she said and accepted the paper. She opened and scanned through the names and almost snorted once she saw some familiar names on the parchment. She would pay galleons just to see their reactions once summons from their firm would come knocking down on their doors.
"Have you had your own packages settled?" Daphne asked Harry but before he could answer Hermione and Theo came in approaching them accompanied by the same man who accompanied them earlier.
Harry stood up and immediately greeted Hermione with a hug, as Hermione barreled in— gracefully though still heartfelt— and greeted Harry with her signature bear hug. Daphne on the other hand simply nodded at Theo who chuckled at her behavior.
Daphne stood up after Hermione hugged Harry and approached her. The two women shared a short handshake. When Daphne was about to let go, Hermione gripped her hand and she had to look at the woman in question.
"Explain" she demanded but then soften her grip on Daphne then continued, "Please".
"Come on, love. We'll talk about that later" Theo calmed down Hermione by putting his hand on her shoulder and guiding her to her chair. The couple sat facing each other with, Harry and Daphne on one side while Hermione and Theo on the other.
The four ordered their food and waited for the food to arrive before applying confundos and privacy charms around their table.
It was silent at their table and Daphne couldn't help but feel amused seeing Hermione fidgeting on her chair wanting to burst and ask them questions. Theo was just there, being Theo— sitting perfectly like the trained heir of House Nott, subtly looking around while one hand was holding his lover's own.
She glanced at Harry and noticed he was also fidgeting and looking everywhere except for Hermione. Daphne just sat there, with legs crossed and hands on her lap. It was clear who was nervous and waiting to burst, and who was just waiting for things to erupt.
It reminded Daphne of the tense moments back in Slytherin's common room. Whenever there were disputes it was always settled in the common room. Tense silent moments grew heavy in the common room before someone would sacrifice themselves to disrupt it.
Apparently, Theo loved his girlfriend so much to break said silence— wherein back in Slytherin he would rather eat his foot than be the one to break it.
"Well, you two made quite a stir at the Ministry and the papers" Theo commented as he sipped his water. Daphne could see the visible relaxation on Hermione's tense shoulder.
"Some of them said you threatened them. What did you do to them?" Hermione asked as she looked at Daphne. Theo had a smirk on his face looking at Daphne and raising his brow at her.
Git.
"Yeah, Daphne, what did you do to those poor reporters?" Theo pushed and Daphne gave him a glare that only widened his smirk.
"Just gave off a warning to them and to others who do not have decent manners to respect someone" Daphne nonchalantly replied and side-eyed Harry gave a nod at her words looking at their friends.
Hermione looked at her confused and stared at Harry. Theo on her side remained pensive and looked at Daphne, silently asking her what had happened. Only Harry really knew about the howlers and cursed mails she had received this morning.
"Daphne received some nasty mails earlier this morning and some reporters were waiting to pounce on us at the Ministry entrance, so Daphne told them to lay off" Harry explained looking at Hermione.
"Are you hurt?" Hermione immediately asked Daphne in concern, Theo was also looking at Daphne with a questioning look.
"No, I'm not. Thank you for asking but I already have it covered, we'll see if they try to pull such a stunt" Daphne reassured them and gave Theo a look. He leaned back from his chair, face still pensive.
"That's good to hear" Hermione relieved had leaned back on her chair now, far more relaxed compared to her tense demeanor earlier.
"Did you know? Some of those reporters came to us and asked us questions about you two! If we've known all along and if we knew Daphne placed, you in a love potion! Ridiculous, really" Hermione ranted. Daphne smirked and realized she haven't seen a Prophet paper since early this morning. She shrugged and figured it was along the lines of what they had questioned Hermione.
"Wait, really? I thought they would scamper after what Gre- Daphne told them?" Harry asked intrigued with brows furrowed. Daphne sighed and shook her head as she looked at Harry.
"I did say for them to not stuck their nose onto our business, so they went on and turned to our friends" Daphne explained to Harry. His brows remained furrowed as he sat up straight. She then turned to their friends and grabbed a small parchment and handed it to them.
"If they keep on pushing you for answers and being gits, get a solicitor. You can head to Verdant if you want" She suggested. The food arrived shortly after and the four decided to eat first and head to Hermione's pad to discuss things that should be kept under the wraps.
Daphne wasn't really focusing on the food. Truth be told, she wasn't that hungry, and her mind was running around while listening to whatever the table was talking about and adding her own comments and opinion every once in a while.
"So, are you two going together with the Soiree by Michaels? I heard his pulling all the big people he knew" Theo asked.
"Yes"
"No"
Daphne turned her head and glared at Harry who just continued eating, as if not hearing her. They had an agreement of 4 events together and this aggravated her.
"Yes, we are coming. Together" Daphne reiterated in a firm voice. Harry stopped eating and wiped his face with the napkin and looked at them.
"No, we are not going. If Daphne badly wants to go then she can go" Harry said with a strained smile on his face. He then grabbed his glass of water to drink.
"We. Are. Going" Daphne emphasized each word feeling frustrated as each second passed.
"No" was Harry's simple response staring at Daphne.
Harry Potter was a stubborn man and Daphne could now sympathize with Snape's want to strangle him.
Before Daphne could say another word, Theo interrupted it by clearing his voice. He looked at them with an easy smile and showed his hands at them before speaking.
"How about we continue this at my beautiful girlfriend's pad?"
Muggle London
The foursome walked out of the restaurant with a tense silence between the two. Though Harry still carried her bag the two refused to hold hands. Hermione would occasionally glance at them to check. Theo simply continued to walk; his arms draped around Hermione's shoulder pressing her closer to him.
While Hermione and Theo had a hushed conversation in front of them. Harry and Daphne on the other hand felt more like enemies forced to walk together rather than a convincing loving couple. Harry's eyes constantly scanned the area, it wasn't like he was distracting himself from Daphne's cold treatment— that's what he would reason if asked. There wasn't anything suspicious though, there was something in Harry's mind that wanted to look more so he did. When he found nothing, he turned his attention to Daphne and debated on what to do.
Harry tried to get hold of Daphne's hand as a group of Muggle teens were approaching them, but Daphne pulled her hand out of Harry's reach and glared at him before walking faster than him.
"Great" Harry muttered as he walked aside from the group that was approaching them and walked slightly behind Daphne. Giving out a deep breath and stuffed his free hand into his pocket, as they neared Hermione's building.
They entered a large building and headed straight to the lift and pressed the floor below the rooftop. There was some music playing inside with Theo humming them. Harry glanced at Daphne who was hell-bent on staring at the lift door. If it was possible, Daphne could've melted the metal doors with the intensity of her stare.
He shook his head and turned back his stare in front. Harry really didn't want to attend Michaels' 'soiree', he couldn't stand the man. There was a personal note he sent earlier but Harry just threw it, his decision set in stone — he was not attending it.
"Are you two, ok?" Hermione asked turning to face them.
"Yes," they simultaneously answered then shut their mouth. Harry looked at Hermione who look like ready to chastise him. He raised her brow at her but Hermione simply sighed in frustration before looking back at the door of the lifts.
The lifts finally opened, and they marched towards Hermione's flat. They looked left and right before Hermione pulled her wand and swish it to unlock the locking charms she placed on her door. Once finished, the group entered Hermione's pad.
Despite bringing back her parent's memory, they opted to stay in Australia and Hermione stayed in England to work for the Ministry and occasionally visited her parents. Her pad was spacious and could hold a party of 10 people. It was clean— though not too clean like at the Dursleys— and it had the look of quiet chaos. Some's books were left on the coffee table together with parchments and pens. Harry could also see some of Theo's things around. From a moving picture of him back in Hogwarts to a small black quill with reddish hue feathers on top of the mantle.
Harry pulled the bottle of wine from his coat and unshrunk it before placing it on the coffee table in front of Hermione's coach. He sat down and saw Theo approaching from the kitchen carrying a bottle of firewhisky and glasses.
Theo sat down and opened the bottle of fire whisky and poured a shot for himself a silently asked Harry if he wanted one too.
"You'll probably need this if your conversation with Daphne earlier continued here," he said with a sympathetic smile.
Harry debated for a while, a glass of firewhisky would really help but he remembered it wasn't that long the last time he had a massive hangover because of the amber liquid.
Harry sighed and shook his head at Theo's offer.
"No thanks, I'll stick with the wine for now," he said leaning on the sofa and massaging his temple.
"Your loss" he heard Theo say and downing the shot. Harry groaned and sat back up again.
This is going to be a long night.
Muggle London – Hermione's Pad
As soon as they entered the pad, Daphne went together with Hermione who headed to her room. Daphne was only heading to the bathroom near Hermione's room to wash her face and cool herself.
As they neared the room and out of earshot from the boys, Hermione called Daphne's attention.
Daphne raised her brow at her and asked her what, but Hermione pointed at her room. Daphne just sighed before coming in, Hermione closed the door and placed a privacy charm before looking at Daphne with a determined look.
"Are you using Harry?" Hermione immediately asked and Daphne couldn't help but scoff at Hermione's accusation. She mildly respected it, her looking after Harry, and was also amused by Hermione's biased mind of her only using Harry.
Gryffindors.
"Daphne, I consider you as a friend considering you are one of Theo's closest friends but I swear if you are using Harry-"
"What makes you think that I'm using Harry, Granger?" Daphne asked in a neutral tone. She couldn't blame Hermione for being overprotective, she and Harry shared a bond similar to those of a sibling— and Daphne could certainly understand the feeling of wanting to protect your younger sibling from anyone and anything that would harm them. She was the same with Astoria and to a degree Tracey.
"Theo still hasn't told me anything, saying you would explain what's happening. That's why I'm asking you right now, are you using Harry?" she asked again looking impatient.
Of course, Granger would be impatient being withheld about information.
"What did you think at first?" Daphne asked her while crossing her arms over her chest.
"I thought at first it was real and was frustrated how the hell did I not notice it or felt there was going on. Then, I got to think about it more if you two were actually dating it would just happen recently not only that but I've heard some rumors about you that even Theo seemed concerned" she spoke and Daphne remained silent waiting for her to finish. She would not comment till Granger spoke her piece.
"Harry has this saving people complex, he would do stupid things just to save people and blame himself if anything happens to them. These rumors about you, I never caught the gist of the whole thing, even Theo refused to tell me about it but… I know it had something to do with your inheritance" Hermione finished looking at Daphne as if the answer to her question was hiding behind her skin that would appear short while.
Daphne controlled herself from sucking in a breath. Hermione Granger had deduced what her problem was, although not its specificity she was inbound.
If Hermione knew just by hearing some rumors, what about others? Daphne thought and mentally shook her head.
Hermione Granger is dubbed as the brightest witch of our age and she does have the intelligence and skills to back it up so there's little to no chance others could've got that deduction as close to Hermione.
"You're wrong, Hermione" Daphne started as she loosened her arms cross and dropped her hand.
"I'm not just using Potter, it's a mutual agreement with mutual benefits" she continued and observed Hermione's brows furrowed. Daphne let out a breath and approached Hermione who was near the door.
"I'll explain everything, but you have to promise me, to give an oath even that whatever I reveal will not be shared with anyone outside of your pad" Daphne wanted to be sure. There were already rumors and she couldn't afford for this secret to leak.
The two stood for a few moments looking at each other and weighing the possibilities and disaster this may lead to. Despite that, Hermione nodded her head and pulled her wand, but Daphne stopped her.
"Do it later, the three of you will give me an oath so I can start explaining things" Daphne explained before turning and opening the door to exit the room followed by Hermione.
When they reached the living room, the fire whisky and wine were already opened with two glasses filled with wine, two with fire whisky. Daphne met Harry's eyes and the two nodded. Hermione sat beside Theo and grabbed the firewhisky and drowned it straight.
"Let's start," Daphne said and sat at the coach Harry was occupying with a good distance between them. She grabbed the glass of wine and sipped from it. Daphne needed a buffer from the headache this would ensue.
"First, cast an oath that whatever we discuss in this room will remain within this room, and under no circumstances shall you share the information I shall disclose with anyone and or anything" Daphne first said, seeing Harry's questioning gaze, Daphne continued, "It is extremely important that this be kept, and I want to ensure that it stays that way. An oath may not be the safest and most secure way, but it is a security, nonetheless"
Thankfully, no one argued and pulled their wands to take an oath. She looked at Harry who was still wary but pulled his wand too, that was a huge relief on Daphne's part she was still pissed with Harry from earlier.
"I, Harry James Potter, swear upon my life and magic that the information Daphne Greengrass will discuss in this room will remain in said room, and under no circumstances shall the information be shared with anyone and or anything. So, mote it be"
"I, Theodore Anton Nott, swear upon my life and magic that the information Daphne Greengrass will discuss in this room will remain in said room, and under no circumstances shall the information be shared with anyone or anything. So, mote it be"
"I, Hermione Jean Granger, swear upon my life and magic that the information Daphne Greengrass will discuss in this room will remain in said room, and under no circumstances shall the information be shared with anyone or anything. So, mote it be"
The three swore and a bright blue light engulfed them from their wand and disappeared, sealing the oath. They all looked at Daphne for her to wait, so she took in a deep breath before starting. She would explain right from the start when her father revealed the current predicament to how she ended up being in a 'relationship' with Potter.
o
"So, you're telling me Malfoy Sr. is after your house?" Hermione asked. Daphne nodded at her question. She had finished explaining what was happening and Hermione had already asked questions soon after she was finished.
She would've finished later if she didn't tell Hermione to just ask questions after she was done explaining.
"But it doesn't make sense, why would he spread these rumors about your situation? Why not do it quietly considering what had happened to him after the war" Hermione pointed out. After the war, the Malfoy name was ruined beyond recognition from its former glory. Its only saving grace was Draco and Narcissa helping Harry win the war, despite its ending stages.
"Lucius Malfoy needed clout, despite his current reputation, he is still respected in some pureblood circle that's left. It is his way of pressuring Daphne's father in giving in to what he wants" Theo explained as he played with his glass of firewhisky.
"Why would Daphne's father be pressured, though? It's not like Malfoy still has a lot of influence like before?" Harry asked looking at Daphne. She breathed out and leaned onto the coach before answering.
"Despite not believing in the Pureblood dogma, my father is still a pureblood and it's his utmost priority is the continuation of his line and for the Greengrass name to be passed on to the generations that would follow" Daphne explained.
"If, I, the heiress, do not do my responsibility of finding a match and securing my family's continuation, and my father remains in his stand to keep me as his heiress the other purebloods would label him as a blood traitor for throwing away the responsibility of our family's continuation" Daphne expounded. This is what made her relationship with Harry only a buffer, the fact that she had to marry before Malfoy could marry her sister to have a far more secure hold on her heirship.
Not only that but I'll have to "produce" an heir to solidify my claim and make sure my child shall be the next heir. Daphne thought, the pressure of her situation catching up to her.
There was so much to consider, so much at stake, and so much to plan. Daphne had to plan carefully, to execute most efficiently and effectively, represent her family, to make sure her House's legacy does not fall from the pedestal it now stood on because of the combined work of her ancestor. If she does not act now, what would befall the Ancient and Most Noble House of Greengrass?
Ruins. Worse than ruins if it gets absorbed with the Malfoy name and never sees the light of the day again…
There was a hand that touched Daphne's shoulder and she snapped back her head and saw that Harry now was near her, his hand on his shoulder with a concerned look on his face.
"Daphne, you still with us?" he asked. Daphne absentmindedly nodded but Harry's firm hand gently squeezed her shoulder. She looked back again and saw the determination in his eyes.
"We won't let Malfoy get your House, Daphne. I promise you that, I'll help in any way I can" Harry assured, and Daphne couldn't help but feel her heart race. Harry Potter was a gallant man and maybe that was what Daphne needed at the moment. A person's bravery and courage to spur her own.
Daphne nodded and looked at the other occupants in the room. She saw Hermione looking at her with the same determination as a fiery lion. Theo sat looking at her and nodding his head as their eyes met— Theo would be there, just like how he had always been.
"Yes, right now my supposed relationship with Harry should serve as a buffer as long as we show them that this is serious then it should back them off before they pull anything drastic" Daphne stated.
"When does Malfoy Jr. plan to marry your sister?" Harry asked, his hand still on her shoulder. Daphne kept that information away from her mind and focused on Harry's question.
"I'm not sure, the only thing that Father said was that Draco was planning to marry Tori soon" Daphne answered and turned at Theo to ask.
"The two of you catch up occasionally, right? Has he said anything about it?" Daphne questioned.
"No, he hasn't mentioned anything except for what your father said. It's in his plan to marry Tori but no exact date at mind" Theo answered.
"If Malfoy Sr. wants to speed things up then I'm sure he would pressure Draco to marry your sister sooner" Hermione commented, then paused as she thought more about it, "Do you think Draco is on board with his father's plan?" she asked.
That made the three pause and think about it. Daphne started to run with that idea, was Draco's turn to a new leaf still led him to go with his father's plan.
"No, I don't so" Harry spoke and everyone in the room looked at him. Daphne was surprised, this wasn't the first time Harry Potter had defended a Malfoy, but this was the first time that Daphne knew he was willing to defend his schoolyard nemesis.
"Draco and his father haven't been in the best of relationships ever since Voldemort's defeat. Apparently, Lucius was disappointed and disgusted with how his wife and heir were part of the reason why their master was killed" Harry commented. Daphne raised her brow at him, wondering where he got such information.
"Where did you learn that?" Daphne asked, genuinely curious.
"Andromeda, Narcissa, and even Draco that one time" Harry answered and drank his wine then showed his hand which revealed one of the rings that adorned his finger. Its onyx head of house ring shimmered before Harry made it disappear again.
"You gotta check on family sometimes you know?" he joked and made Daphne huffed good-naturedly.
"We really have to know if Draco is with his father's plan or not" Hermione commented once everyone recovered from Harry's quip.
"Yes, I'll try and see if I can get it out of him the next time we meet," Theo said. Daphne gave them a nod. She appreciated how the two of them were really willing to help. Once she knows if Draco is in his father's pocket or not then she can start executing a plan.
Daphne had to consult with her father, about whether other members of their family knew about this predicament they had. The more Daphne knew, the better she could formulate a foolproof plan.
It was nearing 9 in the evening, and they still had work tomorrow, so they decided to call it a night and head out their own ways— except for Theo and Hermione. The fireplace at Hermione's pad wasn't connected so they had to walk to Muggle London and find a secluded alley before they could apparate to their own destination.
Muggle London
Daphne was walking together with Harry; her hand was holding Harry's while her bag was yet again carried by him. Since Daphne's apartment was not far from the area. She would've been fine walking there on her own— Daphne found that walking really settled her thoughts especially when she was thinking of so many things.
But Harry had to be the gentleman.
I'll walk you home, it's the least I could do.
So, here they were, walking the streets of London in silence. There wasn't much they could talk about considering Daphne's mind pondered on and tabulated plans and to-dos for her problem. It was already Autumn and without heating charms, Daphne would have been shivering.
The walk was silent, and Harry would occasionally change their position when crossing the road. They eventually reached Daphne's building. It had a front of a muggle apartment, but it was also a magical building. It was one of the rental businesses of their family. Half muggle and half magical, it had helped the Greengrasses to fill the vaults they had in Gringotts— though not really advertised but Greengrass dabbled in Muggle business and economics.
Daphne led Harry to the back where the Magical Entrance was located.
"I never really noticed this place," Harry said as they entered the magical door to enter.
"This part is flooded with disillusionment, confundos, and privacy charms. Only a few know about this place" Daphne answered as they entered the lift and Daphne pressed her wand to a small space beside the doors. It signaled blue and immediately bought Daphne to her floor.
"That was… fast and smooth" Harry commented as they stepped out. Daphne chuckled and looked at him.
"Greengrass patent" she then winked at him before dragging him towards her apartment— Bedflower.
"Your family does inventions?!" Harry asked and Daphne couldn't help but smile while nodding at him.
"A few here and there" she answered, proud of her family's achievements. The Greengrass family was purebloods but was never condescending to Muggles and their progression. They had reached so far without magic that her family's businesses and inventions were inspired by them.
"How was that so smooth and fast? The Ministry should change the lifts with those" Harry commented, and Daphne couldn't help but smile and lightly chuckle.
"It's a secret, only family members can know about it. About the Ministry? They're too frugal and tight with the budget that they'll use those lifts till its runes are overused and you can't carve new ones on its surface" Daphne commented good-naturedly as she turned and saw Harry chuckling.
He sobered up but a smile was still plastered on his face, but Daphne could see him thinking, his smile fading. Then he rubbed his neck with his hand, the other still holding her bag. Daphne tilted her head waiting for him to say something. He turned his head and met her eyes, Harry immediately avoided her eyes and stood straight to look at her properly.
"What?" Daphne asked raising her brow at him and curious to what her companion was thinking.
"Do you really want to go to Michaels' 'soiree'? Harry asked. Daphne looked around and cast a quick privacy charm around them to make sure any eavesdropper wouldn't get a thing.
"Yes, it will serve as a statement. It will help with making sure people will see us and for Malfoy to stop this foolish plan of his" Daphne explained and observed Harry's face. His face was neutral, but she could feel his internal debate.
Hopefully the side that benefits me wins.
Harry gave a large sigh and looked at Daphne with a slumped shoulder. Somehow, a blossom of hope that Harry would go along with her plan, and she wouldn't have to rough house with him again for him to go along with this event.
"All right, I'll go with you this 18th and we'll head to Michaels' stupid event" Harry looked resigned and defeated. Daphne couldn't help but give smile and felt hopeful about the turn of events.
Daphne felt she could hug him right now!
Hug? Potter? Daphne was confused by the thought. She reasoned that it must've been the stress catching up to her.
"Thank you, Harry! I assure you we will not stay longer than necessary in the event" Daphne assured which elicited a sigh of contentment and a smile from Harry.
"Thanks, Daphne" Harry thanked her, and Daphne nodded at him with a short smile before turning around and using her wand to unlock her apartment. As soon as the locks were undone, Daphne had a bad feeling— something or someone has entered uninvited inside.
Daphne prepared her wand, and she could feel Harry shift beside her also preparing. She took a deep breath and opened her door widely and pointed her wand inside. The light was turned on and what greeted her made her groan.
There in her parlor was none other than her sister— standing proud and face mixed with shock and amusement— carrying a copy of Daily Prophet paper. Daphne could clearly see the headline in bold letters screaming on her face.
WIZARDING SAVIOR, HARRY POTTER, SNAGGED! LOVE POTION IN PLAY?!
There was even a moving picture that looked like it came from a pensive when Harry accompanied her to the Ministry Atrium and kissed her on the forehead. Daphne's cheeks reddened and she could feel Harry just behind her, not knowing what his face was.
Astoria stood there looking at Daphne with a mischievous glint in her eye.
"You're dating Harry Potter!"
a/n
* in need of a Beta Reader*
hello~ thank you for patiently waiting for the update, I know, late for day, it has been a very busy week and good God, orgs and majors have been acting up. Now that's out of the way, I want to say thank you for everyone who has supported his story. The favorites, follows, and review. Thank you GinsengH for the informative review you gave, I'll do some clean up with this story when I find a new beta reader or when I have some time. With that said, I'm in need of a new beta reader and I would appreciate if someone can beta read DftM. As usual, tell me what you think of the chapter (in a kind way, keep up the kind reviews guys!)your appreciation keeps me writing and allocating time for this little story. Thank you so much for reading and I hope you can keep enjoying this story moving forward. Thanks and I hope you have a great day/evening ahead!
