Hello (gives you all a warm smile) been a long time hasn't yet. You cannot believe how happy I am that I'm finally updating this story. I've been struggling with it for so long, but I won't bore you with the details here.
However I have to say a big thank you to all the wonderful readers who've read and reviewed this story. I am honestly blown away with the amount of reviews/favourites/alerts and messages this story has got and I've loved reading them all. They have been great motivations for me and definitely cheered me up when I needed it.
You guys have been so patient and supportive and I only hope this chapter was well worth the wait. I haven't had a chance to reply back to everyone's reviews and well thought a new chapter was a better response than nothing.
WARNING: Contains several mentions of abuse. Please do not read if you don't feel comfortable about it.
Now I won't keep you any longer, on with chapter nine. Enjoy.
Disclaimer: I do NOT own anything of Harry Potter, that's ALL J.K Rowling.
"I guess you know what happened then," said James as they made their way into the living room.
Harry and Ginny had quickly made their way back to the couch and Albus and Lily had to hide their grins at how innocent they were acting. Especially after they had told them to stay here when they went to see what was taking James so long.
Their grins grew wider when they saw how Harry and Ginny kept looking at Teddy as they walked in. Harry tried being polite and not stare, but it was hard when he never saw a person with that colour hair before. Ginny was making it perfectly clear that she was staring.
Teddy stopped and just took a moment to take in what he was seeing. He was already warned beforehand what the potion did. He had talked with George countless times about it during the making and testing of it. But he never imagined this would ever happen to any of his family members.
A girl and boy sat patiently, one more than the other, on the couch waiting for them and it was like seeing a little Albus and Lily again. They were both dressed in clothes ready for bed, big bowls of popcorn sat on either side with a big throw pooled on the floor in front of them.
The girl, Ginny, it was Ginny. Teddy chuckled gently at her curious glances, her face round with a healthy glow and her short red hair bobbing around her face as she couldn't seem to stay still for more than a minute. She reminded him so much of Lily and he could imagine for a second, she'll hold out her arms for him to pick up and cuddle.
Harry was a spitting image of Albus, all the way to the messy black hair, or more correctly Albus was a spitting image of Harry. But as active as Ginny was, Harry was nowhere near close. He sat calmly and still, his head tilted slightly to the side as he watched them enter the room. His eyes were round and big, emotion so clear he could easily read them. At this age he could easily tell Harry wore his heart on his sleeves and by the weariness he saw, that was slowly wearing thin.
Harry was skinny, that's the first thing he noticed. He remembered that panda onesie, it used to be James' and he remembered how much he loved it. Harry definitely looked warm and cosy in it. But he was small, not the size of a healthy six years old.
"Yeah, Shacklebolt briefed me on everything," he gave an exasperated sigh and looked to his everything but blood little brothers with fond annoyance. "You guys just couldn't help yourself this summer, could you?"
James and Albus gave him impish looks and shrugged. But he didn't miss the guilt and anxiety in their eyes. His expression softened and he felt Lily squeeze his hand, telling in her own way that now wasn't the time for that sort of talk.
"In any case, I still want to hear it from you guys as well," he gave them an encouraging smile.
"We can do that," nodded Lily before coming to stand in front of Harry and Ginny and turned to look at Teddy. "Or we could go through introductions, catch up and leave the grown-up talk for later."
She crossed her arms and gave a good stare at her two eldest brothers, daring them to counter her. Albus stood next to his sister and grinned at his brothers. James pouted at the look while Teddy just shook his head fondly of her.
"Great," she clapped and turned to smile at her little parents. "Harry, Ginny, I'd like you to meet our eldest brother, Teddy."
Teddy gave a smile as two sets of eyes firmly fixed on him and by the looks of it more importantly fixed on his hair. He internally grinned.
"Hello," Harry shyly greeted, his eyes darting to James, who gave him an encouraging thumbs up, before fixing on the older man.
"Hi, I'm Ginny. It's nice to meet you," came Ginny's more enthusiastic reply with a little wave.
"Hello, Harry, Ginny. It's very nice to meet you both," greeted Teddy smoothly and came to settle in front of his little all but blood parents.
"How do you like your stay with my brothers and sister so far?" he asked, his smile never wavering.
"It's been great," exclaimed Ginny happily, bouncing in place, "I like it here, it's a lot of fun."
Teddy nodded, "that's good to hear," and honestly it was. Ever since he spoke to Shacklebolt he'd been worried none stop about his family. But judging by how Harry, Ginny and the house were still intact meant his siblings were doing a pretty good job so far.
He turned to look at his little godfather. "What about you, Harry? How do you like it here?"
Harry tensed a little when Teddy directed his gaze to him and his eyes flickered to the Potter siblings, briefly taking in their encouraging and happy smiles before focusing on the older man. "I like being here very much," he answered gently, fiddling with a piece of popcorn in his hands.
"Are they taking good care of you?" asked Teddy, trying to get his little godfather to warm up to him. It was quite disconcerting to see Harry so reserved and cautious around his family.
At this Harry smiled, he couldn't deny that Jamie, Al and Lily were taking care of him way better than the Dursley's ever had. "Yes."
Teddy's smile brightened, "that's very good to hear, Harry." Teddy then settled more comfortably in front of them, "but I wanted to ask if I could take care of both of you too?"
Harry and Ginny both looked surprised and they looked at the Potter kids behind Teddy. They were all watching silently, none of them showed any signs of discomfort or distrust. This was definitely the eldest brother each of their babysitter talked fondly about. But did that mean that James, Albus and Lily were no longer their babysitters? Are they going to have to stay with Teddy now?
Harry bit his lower lip nervously, while Ginny pouted, "Are Al and Jamie and Lily in trouble?" she asked.
Teddy shook his head patiently, he heard a little shuffling behind him, but chose to ignore it for now. "No of course not, but they're just kids too-"
"We're not kids," coursed Albus and Lily, sounding offended. Teddy hid a smirk and continued on like he didn't hear them.
"- and I'm here to look after all five of you," he looked sincerely at them, "and it's my job as well. You see I'm an Auror and one of my jobs is to look after people who need protecting."
"What's an Auror?" asked Harry curiously as both children tilted their heads at that. Green and brown eyes shining in innocent interest.
"Do you work where Daddy works too?" Ginny leaned in excitedly.
Teddy tried very hard not to just scoop his godparents up into his arms at how adorable they were behaving and nodded at Ginny. "Yes, that's right. Aurors work in the Ministry and an Auror is a person who catches bad people and protects everyone. Sort of like a Policeman."
Recognition finally settled into Harry's eyes and he nodded, "but why do we need protecting?" He frowned, "are bad people coming here too?"
All four of them shook their heads quickly at that. Teddy gave a small laugh and waved his hand in front of him, placating. "No no, there are no bad people coming." He thought for a moment, how was the best way to explain this.
He looked directly at Harry and didn't miss how Ginny had shuffled closer to him and was leaning in curiously to listen as well. There was a lot more trust in Ginny's eyes than there was in Harry's and Teddy inwardly frowned at that. There was definitely something there that he didn't know about, but he intended to find out.
Albus and Lily had at that moment came to sit on either side of Harry and Ginny, giving reassuring smiles. James sat next to Teddy on the floor in front of his little parents, bumping his shoulder gently with his older brother. Encouragement there if he needed it.
"You see, Harry," started James and Harry redirected his gaze to him. "Our parents are... are away as well," he gave a small smile, "and even though I'm the best behaved from the lot-"
All three of his siblings scoffed at that, but he ignored them, "they still want to make sure that we're looked after. So, you could say Teddy is our babysitter as well as yours."
"We're all here to look after each other," contributed Lily, "and our parents want to make sure that we do have a grown-up with us."
"Even though," staged whispered Albus to Harry, "these two don't really act like grown-up." Harry's smile grew a little at that, while Teddy and James gave them affronted looks.
"I know I'm a stranger to the both of you," said Teddy reluctantly, those were words he never thought he'd have to direct at his godparents. "But I would love to change that. So, is it okay for me to stay here and look after all of you?" asked Teddy again, his eyes never leaving Harry's and Ginny's.
Harry had no idea why the older man was asking them if it was okay for him to stay in his own house. He had his own bedroom, there were pictures on the walls of him, and his babysitters knew him and loved him. Why would he ask them if he could stay?
But nevertheless, he nodded because he knew it'll make Jamie, Al and Lily happy. Ginny gave a big smile and enthusiastically exclaimed yes and then asked a question that was bursting to come out of both of their mouths.
"Why is your hair blue?"
Teddy grinned at that while his siblings laughed around them. Leave it to Ginny to pop out a question that both distracted and defused what little tension was left hanging in the air since Teddy's arrival.
"Are you sure it's blue?" he asked mischievously. Harry and Ginny gave him confused looks before nodding. It was pretty hard to miss that colour of hair. "Because I was pretty sure it was green a while ago."
Harry and Ginny both gasped and watched in pure fascination as Teddy's hair changed from blue to bright green.
"Actually, no wait," Teddy now looked thoughtful, "I had brown hair and it was a little long," and just as he said it, his short green hair dyed away to a chocolate brown, coming down in waves and settling just below his ears. He ran his hand through his hair making it a little messy.
Both children stared with wide eyes, finding it hard to believe what they were seeing. Ginny was very tempted to get up and touch the older man's hair, while Harry couldn't stop staring; he was even sure Teddy's eyes kept flickering colours as well.
"What do you think?" asked Teddy with a grin as he posed his head to give them a better look. "I'm more partial to this style though," again they watched as Teddy's hair turned back to the turquoise blue, short and styled. "But do you think it looks better in red or black?"
His hair continued to change from red and black as he ran his hand through it. Lily, Albus and James were watching with big grins of their own, loving their parents' reactions.
"I like it blue," contributed Lily.
"Nah, black all the way," grinned James, "don't you agree, Al?"
Albus nodded, "there's too many redheads." He was trying very hard not to laugh alongside his brother and sister. Ginny was practically vibrating in place, just itching to jump at Teddy and Harry now had a grin on his face, his green eyes sparkling in wonder.
"How are you doing that? How are you doing that?" burst out Ginny as she leapt to her feet on the couch and tried to take a closer look at Teddy's hair. Albus quickly steadied her, holding her around the waist. "Teach me, teach me."
Teddy chuckled and his hair settling into his original blue, but with streaks of black and messy. "I'm sorry, Ginny, but I can't teach you how to do it. I was born with this ability."
Ginny gave a disappointed pout, but then squealed happily when Teddy moved his head forward and let Ginny mess it up. He winced a little as she tugged.
"I'm a Metamorphmagus," he explained, his eyes drifting over to Harry and he smiled as Harry watched his eyes change colour. "It means I can change the way I look whenever I want. So, you'll never know what I'll look like in the next minute."
He proved it by changing his appearance to resemble a young Harry Potter. His hair becoming a thicker and messier black, Ginny watched in awe as his hair changed in her small hands. His eyes shifting to an emerald green and his skin became slightly lighter.
Harry's eyes moved from Teddy to James to Albus and felt his heart tug at their appearance. They all definitely looked like they were related. It must be wonderful to have such a big family.
"I'm still the better looking one," proclaimed James proudly. Albus rolled his eyes and Teddy chuckled, ruffling up James' hair.
"Or..." continued Teddy as he looked back at the two children. Ginny had stopped examining Teddy's hair, but looked all the more excited as Albus encouraged her to sit back down. He changed his appearance again, this time letting his hair grow long, sleek and blonde, running just past his shoulders, his eyes changed to ocean blue, stubble starting to grow on his face and his facial features becoming more masculine. "I could look like anyone."
He hadn't missed the look of longing on Harry's face and the tint of sadness there. Teddy was finding it hard not to just hug his godfather; he knew whenever he felt like that Harry was always there to comfort him. It pained him that he couldn't do it himself, now that he'd got a chance to show little Harry the same love his godfather showed him when he was younger.
Lily gentle nudged Harry, her smile kind, "see, didn't I tell you Teddy is great." Harry gave a small smile in return and nodded. So far, he thought Teddy was a nice and funny person.
Teddy blushed at the praise and reverted back to his original look.
"Can you look like Daddy? Or Mummy? Or even Aunt Muriel?" asked Ginny, brown eyes sparkling, "I know can you look like Bill?"
Teddy chuckled, "I can try, but I don't know what they look like exactly so it'll be a little hard." He knew exactly what they all looked like though and he'd seen enough old photos of everyone to know what they looked like when they were young. But he was currently a stranger, a person who didn't know anything about Harry's and Ginny's families, so Ginny didn't need to know that bit of titbit that he could change his appearance to somewhat match her older family members.
"Aww yeah, you don't know what they look like," agreed Ginny with a sad pout. Honestly even though she was having a lot of fun with her babysitters. She was still missing her family, it had been way to long since she's seen them and all she wanted was her mummy's kisses and her daddy's hugs. She wanted to play with her brothers again, have a tickle fight with Fred and George, play board games with Ron, listen to all the Hogwarts stories Bill and Charlie told and read a really good book with Percy.
Noticing Ginny's lower lips trembling, Albus slowly started rubbing Ginny's back. Ginny leaned into the touch and Albus made quick eye contact with James, who frowned sadly.
"It's okay to miss them you know," said Albus gently, "I miss my mum and dad too."
Ginny turned to look at the older boy, "you do?" Albus nodded.
"We all do," said James and Lily hummed in agreement.
"But you're all big," Ginny threw up her hands to emphasis their heights. "How can you miss your mummy and daddy? My daddy said that once you're big, you won't want your mummy and daddy around."
All four of them looked appalled at that, looking at Ginny with different degrees of sadness. "That's not true, Ginny. I'm sure your daddy didn't mean it like that," Lily told her.
Ginny hummed sadly, looking down, "Daddy was sad when he said it; Billy was being naughty and not listening and made Mummy sad too."
"Do you know what they were talking about, Ginny?" asked Teddy, curiously.
Ginny shrugged, "Me and Ronnie were hiding behind the door when we heard Billy shouting. Percy said that Bill wanted to do a danga- um dangu'ous job-"
"Dangerous," corrected Harry quietly and Ginny nodded.
"Yeah, and Mummy and Daddy were just scared for him. Percy said he had to go far away and won't need us anymore."
"When was this?" asked Lily looking at her siblings, confused. She never thought Uncle Bill would be the one to argue with his parents. He was always the mellow and responsible of their uncles, second to Uncle Percy.
"It was at Christmas," answered Ginny, "Bill, Charlie and Percy had come home and we were having so much fun. Mummy made really yummy ginger biscuits. I remember Bill saying he was really excited about something at dinner."
Teddy quickly did some math and deduced that Bill would have been in his last year of Hogwarts and probably discussed his career path with his parents. He knew Bill used to be a Curse Breaker before working for Gringotts and knew how dangerous and strenuous the job was. No wonder Arthur and Molly were worried.
Teddy gave Ginny a reassuring smile, "I'm sure your parents were just worried for your brother. They just don't want him to get hurt. It's a parent's job to worry about their kids."
"Are Mummy and Daddy worried about me?" asked Ginny, her lower lips starting to tremble again.
"Of course, they worry about you," said Albus, his heart reached out for his young mother, "Our parents worry about us too."
"Then why don't you call them?" asked Ginny adamantly, her bright eyes focusing on Albus. "I want to call my mummy and daddy. Can you call them?"
Albus bit his lip and looked over at James and Teddy, unsure on how to proceed.
"I want to talk to my mummy," continued Ginny, now turning teary eyes to James, "Jamie, I want to talk to Mummy."
"I know you do, Ginny," he said soothingly. He could never stand it when girls cried around him. It made him feel even worse when it was his mother or sister and they were never ones to cry for no good reason. "But...um...you can't," he explained lamely.
The trembling intensified and her eyes grew wide and doleful. James thought that should be against the law to have an expression like that.
"It's quite late, Ginny," Teddy explained, when it looked like the rest of them couldn't come up with anything to calm their little mother. He added a bit of sternness to his voice, "It wouldn't be right to call your mum now. She'd only get worried and she's probably very tired from helping the Ministry. You wouldn't want to wake your mummy and daddy after they've been working so hard?"
Ginny was silent for a while before reluctantly nodding. Albus gave her a one-armed hug and Harry gently nudged her, gaining her attention.
"It'll be okay, Ginny," Harry smiled at her, soft and sweet, trying to cheer her up. "You'll see your mummy and daddy again and then you'll have lots to tell them."
Ginny brightened a little at that and nodded, "yeah."
"That's the spirit," cheered Teddy and he gave a thumbs up to Harry. Harry smile turned timid, but he was glad he could help in his small way.
Teddy eyes lingered on Harry for a few more seconds before clapping his hands together, "well now that that's cleared up. I believe you guys were in the middle of a movie and I need to change." Teddy straightened up, not wanting to impose for too long. It looked like things were going quite well and his brothers and sister had everything handled so far. He didn't want Harry and Ginny to feel anxious with a new person around them suddenly, he knew they'll have questions for them after he left.
All five youngsters turned towards the T.V and noticed that the movie was just about to end. The three eldest groaned.
"Aw we missed all the good parts," pouted Lily, "quickly, rewind it, Al."
Albus got the remote and quickly rewound it back to where they were watching before Teddy came. Teddy shook his head with amusement and watched fondly as James settled Harry and Ginny back into their previous positions with the throw over their laps and Albus and Lily quickly snuggling on either side of them.
"Oh, I like this part," grinned James, "watch, watch." And they were quickly engrossed back into the movie, successfully distracting them all.
Teddy steadily crept away and made his way to his room. He knew there was a lot more to talk about; he could tell his little siblings were going to have loads to tell him.
He sighed; he wasn't expecting to come home to this. He had it all planned when he was going to see Harry, he knew Harry would be able to help and reassure him. But now it looked like he was going to be flying solo for a while.
He had to admit though, Harry and Ginny were both very adorable children. He smiled thinking of the way they both reacted to him and how his siblings took to them.
He made it to his bedroom door, smoothly opening it with a flick of his wand, walked in and placed his things on his bed. The more he thought about them, the more they started reminding him of something. He couldn't quite place it though, but the way Harry held himself and behaved, it just wasn't sitting well with him. He knew that behaviour from somewhere.
Maybe he was just tired, it had been a long couple of days and so much had happened. Teddy sighed and stretched his tired limbs. He went to his wardrobe and took out a change of clothes. He was definitely going to take a shower; he needed it and probably find some food to eat.
"One step at a time, Teddy," he told himself as he ran his hand through his hair.
He then looked down at his left hand and the ring sitting comfortably on his ring finger. He smiled at the memory it brought, Victoire had been very adamant he got one too.
He chuckled and left his room for the bathroom.
It was past ten o'clock when James, Lily, Albus and Teddy settled into the living room. Lily and Albus had put Harry and Ginny to bed, but not after Ginny had demanded a bedtime story and have Harry listen to it too.
Relenting, Lily had brought some books from the library and Ginny and Harry picked one out before having Albus read it to them. All four of them had snuggled up on Ginny's bed and it wasn't long before both young children had fallen asleep. Lily looked like she was minutes away from doing the same, but Albus poked her and motioned for her to get up. A single bed would be cramped for three people.
Harry and Ginny had both curled up under the duvet, facing each other and sound asleep. Ginny face was halfway hidden under the duvet, while Harry was sleeping like a stretched-out cat, arms tucked to his chest. They didn't have the heart to disturb them with how adorable and peaceful they looked, but Albus reluctantly, gently picked up Harry and took him to his room. The little boy didn't stir as Albus tucked him in and placed a kiss on his forehead. Lily made sure Ginny was comfortable, placing a kiss as well.
James had tidied up the living room, picking up all the pieces of popcorn that had practically gotten into every nook and cranny of the sofa. Teddy had made himself a quick sandwich from the leftovers of Angelina's food and ate the last of the popcorn that was still in the bowls. He made four mugs of hot chocolate when they all gathered in the living room.
They all settled on the sofa and armchair, each holding their own mug. Lily had practically tackled Teddy with questions about his mission, tucking herself into his side. Teddy had changed into his PJs as well, a pale green t-shirt with dark green checker pants.
He gave Lily an indulgent smile, "you know I can't tell you anything about what we do, Lily."
Lily pouted, "it's not like you're an Unspeakable, Teddy. At least tell me if you were out of the country."
Teddy chuckled, "yep we were."
"Where?" asked Albus, leaning in with interest.
Teddy relaxed back into the couch and threw an arm over Albus' shoulder, "not far. Europe," he answered vaguely.
"France," nudged Albus slyly.
Teddy grinned and shrugged, taking a sip of his hot chocolate, "maybe."
"Did you get us anything?" James jumped in; his mug halfway empty.
Teddy playfully scoffed, "why do I have to get you guys anything whenever I travel?"
"Because it's part of the Code," said James with the utmost importance, "the Big Brother Code."
Albus raised an eyebrow at that, "shouldn't that also apply to you too then," he motioned to himself and Lily, "you're our big brother."
"Yes, well I'm not travelling am I," James rolled his eyes.
"You travel to Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade, you even went camping with Aunt Luna, Lysander and Lorcan" interjected Lily.
"Out of the country, out of the country," quickly amended James, "if you go out of the country then it's obligatory for you to get gifts."
Lily smirked, "well then what about the time you went to Romania with Dad to see Uncle Charlie last summer. You were definitely out of the country then."
"I had no pocket money left," defended James wildly, almost spilling his hot chocolate.
Albus rolled his eyes, "yeah, you spent it all on dragon toys."
"They weren't toys," he snapped, "they were dragon figurines."
"I remember one of them being a plushy," pointed out Teddy, taking a sip of his hot chocolate.
James gave Teddy a betrayed look, which his older brother just raised an eyebrow to. James pouted until he gave a resigned sigh and slouched back. "Fine, but it wasn't a plushy, it was a Hungarian Horntail."
"A Hungarian Horntail plushy," confirmed Teddy.
James narrowed his eyes at him, but still with the air of defeat, said, "you win this round, but the next one is mine."
Teddy chuckled and shrugged, "fair enough, but putting that aside, I couldn't really go gift shopping while on a job and now that my next job is based here. There won't be any traveling anytime soon."
"So, Kingsley really asked you to protect us?" asked Lily, soberly, "does he really think we'll be any sort of danger?"
Teddy looked at them seriously, "It's not a joking matter what has happened and it's not a smidge funny that's it's happened to Harry Potter, the Saviour," Teddy couldn't help roll his eyes at the title. Harry never liked any of the titles he was given and Teddy got sick of hearing it in the Ministry.
"If it gets out that The Harry Potter is nothing more than a small boy, it's a high chance that the Daily Prophet could splatter the story all over the paper and dark witches or wizards could try to come and hurt him. They wouldn't give a second glance to whoever's around him and that's a risk to everyone here."
"They would really hurt Dad? Even though he's just a little kid," said Albus sadly.
"Voldemort tried to kill your dad when he was just a baby, Al. Maybe nowadays there aren't wizards like that anymore, but one never knows. In situation like this trusting someone to have good intentions is difficult," answered Teddy and he rubbed Albus' arm in comfort when the boy's frown deepened.
He'd read enough reports about these sorts of things and then the best example were the stories of Peter Pettigrew.
Teddy's gaze lingered on them. "Bad people aren't like the bad guys in the books you've read or the shows you've watched, in real life bad people don't show restraints if you're children."
That sent shivers up all their spins.
"What-what should we do?" asked James carefully, the gravity of the situation hitting him once again.
"I've set up some protective wards around the house and reinforced the ones already in place when I came. If anyone I don't know or anyone with malicious intent tries to get in, they won't be able to get through the barriers."
They all nodded at him, reassured. His eyes hardened though, his posture and expression very much the Auror he was trained to be. "I want all of you to stay extra vigilant whenever you go out. Don't breathe a word to anyone about this," Teddy warned them. "Not even close friends," he looked to Albus and then James for a moment, but for good measure he looked at Lily too. They all nodded again solemnly.
Teddy softened, "If at any point we have to go out, because even I know you guys won't like being cooped up at home for too long," he added lightly, electing some small smiles. "You can't go around saying Harry and Ginny are your parents. We'll be labelled crazy faster than you can say Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes. So, I suggest we say Harry and Ginny are your little brother and sister."
All three kids looked incredulously at him. "Um... What?" Lily voiced their disbelief.
Teddy smirked, "Harry and Ginny, for the duration of their current situation, will pose as your little brother and sister."
"But...but I don't see how it'll work," said James slowly, his voices uncertain of the concept.
Teddy shrugged and countered, "I don't see why it won't. Harry looks so much like you both that it'll be stupid if we say he's anything but directly related and Ginny is the same when it comes to Lily."
James opened his mouth to say something, but Teddy quickly stopped him, "I know it's not unheard of to have some distant family members look the same, but I'm only saying this for when we travel anywhere in the Muggle world. I'm not risking taking Harry or even Ginny to any Wizard populated places because it would be a direct giveaway. The Potter family history is unfortunately all too well known."
James and Lily relented at that, it made sense. But Albus wasn't sure.
"Are you sure? I mean... it seems a little..." Albus struggled to find the right words, "weird?" he said slowly, unsure, "to call Mum and Dad our brother and sister."
His actual brother and sister couldn't help agree. Teddy sighed.
"I think it's time you all stop thinking of this Harry and Ginny as your mother and father and more like the little children they are. We won't be able to get through this situation if you can't understand this much." Albus flinched and Teddy made himself relax, he looked at the young boy with soft fondness. He didn't intend for his words to come out harshly, but this wasn't a children's games, they needed to stop treating it like one.
"Just for a little while Al," he said gently, "I know this has been hard on all three of you, but you got to brave this out a little longer. We got to make sure we're covered from every possible angle, from every possible situation that could come up. Here," Teddy gestured around him, "we're safe. But out there," he pointed to the window, the night sky was covered in grey clouds, trees rustled in the wind, "it's a lot different and I'm going to need all three of you to understand and be prepared for anything that world can throw at you."
He looked at all three of them, taking in their ashen faces, "do you understand?" he implored gently.
They all nodded after a few seconds and that was enough for him. Now he only had one more thing to say before it was their turn to talk.
He didn't really want to chew out his everything but blood brothers, but when thinking about all that he had planned and how he was looking forward to Harry's and Ginny's reaction, he couldn't help feel a bit of resentment. Why couldn't they go one summer without causing any mischief?
"Now that the professional discussion is out of the way," said Teddy calmly as he removed his arm from around Albus and put his hot chocolate mug down on the table. "It's time I got a little personal with you guys."
James and Albus looked nervously at their older brother, while Lily gave a small frown and shrunk away, not wanting to be in the line of fire that she knew was about to come.
"Confetti pants. A child potion. Not talking to each other for nearly a week and not accepting an apology." Teddy's eyes turned to a dark steel grey, his gaze hard and unforgiving. "What are you? Five? I can't believe you two, I can't believe you two had the audacity to pull off this stunt. To start off your summer like this."
Albus and James shrunk back as well, becoming as tiny as possible. Teddy never got mad often, but when he did, it wasn't something they wanted to stick around for and definitely not something they wanted directed at them.
"Do you have any idea how much Harry was looking forward to this summer with all of you." He demanded, throwing his hands up in the air in frustration. Just thinking about his godfather's smiling face and soft eyes when he spoke about how he couldn't wait to spend time with them made his heart clench. "He couldn't stop talking about it, he practically had the whole holiday planned out. Do you know how many times he told me that he felt guilty for not spending so much time with you guys. That you'd probably think he doesn't have any time for you."
His glare was cold ice, if Teddy had the ability to manipulate the temperature around him by will, the room would be a freezer by now. He needed them to understand, he needed them to know the full extent of what they've done and to whom.
They couldn't just get away with just a stern lecture. He wouldn't allow it. Their father was one of the most important people in their lives, in his life. He didn't like it when Harry blamed himself for things that weren't his fault and he hated it even more that Harry thought he was at fault for not being there for his children, when said children couldn't make time for him.
All three Potters had their heads bowed, Lily was hugging herself, James' hands were clenched tightly into fists and Albus' green eyes were shadowed under his hair.
"What were you thinking?" Teddy practically hissed out.
It was silence for a few minutes, before Albus braved to speak, his voice meek, "we weren't."
"Too right you weren't," was the immediate biting response and Albus and James flinched.
"Don't expect any pity or help when Dad and Mum decide on your punishments, especially not from me. You guys aren't kids anymore, you can't keep doing stuff like this. It was funny when you two were younger, but now, especially with this stunt, it's getting tedious and dangerous and it's about time you two started acting your age instead of spoilt ten-year-olds."
"It's bad enough that it's affecting your relationship that you can't even accept an apology and you think public humiliation of a family member is an appropriate prank. But this could have had some serious consequences, you two are just so lucky that it didn't come to that."
Teddy's voice never rose, it was steely and steady and it cut through the two young boys like a knife. Each word jabbed at them and lingered, they couldn't deny the truth of those words. They couldn't muster up anything to say.
"I bet you two haven't even talked about the prank or even given each other a decent apology since this happened," he said and he looked to Lily for confirmation. The young girl nodded, a small frown on her face.
Teddy's glare intensified as he redirected his gaze back to his young brothers. "Right, out with it. Both of you. I best not see a smidge of ego or pride in either of you, because frankly you both have none in this situation. You're both sixteen and fifteen years old. Start. Acting. Like. It."
Albus squirmed under Teddy's scrutiny and looked to James. His older brother had his head down, so he couldn't tell what he was thinking. But that didn't matter, he knew he was wrong. If he never thought about getting back at James, then none of this would have ever happened. It was only right if he was the first to apologise. James had done enough of that when they got home.
"I'm sorry, Al," came the quiet voice. Albus' eyes widened and he looked stunned as James brought his head up to look at him. Brown eyes shining and a tentative small smile gracing his face.
James took in Albus' face and he chuckled wetly. "Silly little brother, I know you think this is all your fault, but it's not," he shook his head, "really it's not," he adamantly insisted when Albus opened his mouth to protest. "I started it and I should be man enough to admit that. The first few times I apologised was only because Mum insisted on it and I shouldn't have needed someone to prompt me to say sorry when I know myself that it wasn't the right thing to do. Even if it was for a laugh."
"But you know me Al," he almost looked beseechingly at his brother. "You know I would never intentionally hurt you in any way. I know the end of year prank got out of hand, but I didn't think you would take it so seriously. Most of the time you never do."
Albus sighed, there was no avoiding this now, "normally I don't, but losing your trousers in front of the whole Great Hall isn't something I found funny, James. Your pranks never used to go that far. Then why did it with me?" His eyes bore into his older brothers and he understood, he really did. He knew his brother never means for things to go too far, his pranks were for harmless mischief, he's seen it enough times with other students at Hogwarts where he wasn't hesitant to apologise.
But why did it feel like it was different with him. Why did it feel like his brother didn't care what happened to him? "I know you were told off by Dad to never prank anyone that'll result in public humiliation or anything to demean them. Then why was it okay with me?"
There was silence for a few second, before James' expression darkened and almost anger showed in his brown eyes, "Albus Severus Potter," his voice lost the soft tone, "don't you dare for one second believe that I don't care about you," Albus' eyes widened at that and James knew he hit the nail on the head.
He shot up from his seat, "how could you even think that?" James nearly raved, disbelief adding colour to his angry tone. "I know I haven't been the best lately. Scratch that, I've been downright foul. I have no excuse for playing that prank on you other than that I thought it would be really funny. Which it was," he added as an afterthought. Albus glared at him and Teddy sent him a disapproving look, but James ploughed on. "But I know it was wrong. I never wanted it to go that far and I didn't know you would lose your trousers, Al."
At this point James started pacing, "the fireworks were supposed to fly out of your pockets before exploding, not explode on you. I panicked when you were lost in all the smoke and light. But as soon as I saw you leave with Rose and Scorpius and not hurt, I was so relieved, Al." He stopped in front of his brother. "You're my brother, my little brother. I'd prank someone into oblivion before they even think about hurting you."
Albus' green gaze was locked intently on his brother, not willing to speak yet. "But I knew if anyone could take my pranks, give them back to me tenfold and know without a doubt that it was never meant to hurt them, it's you, Al." Brown eyes bored into green, "I thought that would never change."
Albus hugged himself, still looking at his brother. It was only a moment later that he finally looked away and sighed, "sometimes I'm not sure, James," his answer came out quiet, almost hesitant.
James visibly deflated at that, distressed eyes flickering in Teddy's direction before focusing back on Albus. "Al-"
Albus abruptly stood up and faced his brother, lips pulled into a frown, green eyes narrowed. "Look I know this whole issue about the prank thing is stupid and nonsense and it shouldn't be a big deal. But..." he looked somewhat helplessly at his brother. He didn't want to feel like this, but he did and he didn't like it. "But... sometimes, when you play those pranks on me, it's like... it's like you're having too much fun with it, like you enjoy it. I... I could be wrong, but James, it's starting to feel like you don't want me around or you just find me annoying or... or not worth hanging out with... or-"
Albus was abruptly cut off when James suddenly lunged at him, almost toppling him over into Teddy, who shot out his hand and steadied him from the back. James wrapped his arms around him tightly, burying his head into his shoulder.
"You idiot, you big, gigantic idiot. You've been feeling like this since then and you didn't think to tell me." He released him and held him by the shoulders. Brown eyes intense, "You're daft for thinking I don't ever want you around Al. I'm sorry I made you feel like that, it wasn't right and it was even more wrong of me not to notice. Actually, scratch that, I did notice, but I didn't know I was the cause of it." He gave an apologetic smile, eyes expressing his regret, "honestly the pranks were just to try to cheer you up. You guys just sat your OWLs and I thought you were still stressing over that."
"That wasn't me, that was Scorpius," added Albus absently, he was slowly starting to realise where the confusion was coming from and it seemed Teddy was thinking along the same lines too.
Teddy shook his head and sighed, "I can't believe this. Are you kidding me? All this time you both been misunderstanding the situation and jumping to different conclusions." He gave both of them unimpressed looks, "this is what you get for not communicating properly." He then rolled his eyes at the absurdity of the whole situation, "I can't believe this whole thing could have been avoided if both of you just opened your gobs. From now on you two are not allowed to give each other the silent treatments. I bet even Harry told both of you to just talk to each other."
Both boys looked sheepish and guilty at that and Lily couldn't help but smile at them. It was good to have everything out in the open even if it was something so trivial.
"Well if you ask me, I'm glad everything is all cleared up. Seriously I was getting fed-up with all the egg-walking around here," admitted Lily.
James rolled his eyes at his little sister's words and Albus gave a small laugh, "I think the phrase is walking on eggshells and I doubt we were doing any of that."
Lily waved a hand dismissively, "you knew what I meant."
James gave a chuckle and directed his attention back to his brother, "seriously thought, Al. I am sorry," he apologised with all sincerity.
Albus nodded, his eyes warm and cheeks pink with embarrassment over the situation, "I'm sorry too."
"From now on, just prank me back or having a good shout at me or just talk to me. But no more silent treatments," pleaded James.
Albus laughed, "Sure, I'll do that."
"Well now that that's all cleared up, we can finally put it in the past," Teddy gave Albus a pointed look, "right?"
Albus' cheeks went pink to red real fast and nodded, "right."
Teddy then gave a gentle smile, "but I'm sure it'll come up for laughs."
"When James is involved in it then I don't doubt it," admitted Albus surely.
"Hey," James looked slightly offended, but otherwise didn't protest the truth of that. "Stuff like this is always brought up for jokes."
"Yeah, in about a year's time or something, not the next day," stated Lily crossing her arms.
James put his arms up in defence, "I'm not that stupid you know." There was a pause and his three siblings just looked at him. "Oi that hurts."
Hiding a smile Teddy picked up his hot chocolate and gestured for them to do the same, "drink up guys, it's getting cold."
Lily and Albus picked up theirs as James gave a sigh and did the same, and everyone settled down more comfortably.
It was a few minutes of silence as everyone drank their hot chocolates before Teddy spoke again. "Now with all that sorted," all three siblings looked up at him, "why don't you tell me how it's been since they've drank the potion."
This time they all looked at each other, various degree of caution and weariness on their faces. Teddy's back straightened a little at that and he leaned forward, arms resting on his thighs, his posture casual and open. "What happened?" he asked gently.
"Nothing bad," reassured Albus.
"We've just found out some stuff about Dad," elaborated Lily. Both younger Potters looked to their eldest and James gave a sigh. How was he supposed to explain this?
Teddy had gone stiff, eyes flashing through different degree of colours before settling on a muddy brown as his gaze swiped through his siblings. Taking in their solemn and weary expressions, he had a feeling it wasn't good news.
His eyes finally settled on James and gestured the younger boy to tell him. "What did you find out?"
James fiddled with the mug in his hands and he chewed on his bottom lip, debating what to say. It wasn't that he couldn't tell Teddy what they discovered, the problem was how it was going to affect him. If it was anything like how they reacted, he wasn't happy to put his older brother through that.
But Teddy was an Auror, he would definitely know how to handle this way better than they have.
"James," prompted Teddy. He smiled reassuringly, "you can tell me."
James shook his head, "I know I can and I want to. I just don't know where to start..."
Teddy was patient and James sighed before opening his mouth and everything that happened in the past few days came spilling out.
Albus and Lily added their observation and thoughts, and the more Teddy listened, the more his body stiffened, his mind raced and his complexion become paler.
There were signs of abuse. He had seen it; in his field of work, it was hard not to in some cases. It was something he never wished for any of his loved ones to go through. But the cases he had seen, had made his heart ache and Harry had always been there for each one. He always handled the situation carefully, kindly, showed the same warmth and compassion to those children that he did for his own.
Something animalistic stirred inside of him then. The very thought of little Harry cornered, afraid, shadows towering over him, hurting him, made him want to tear something into shreds. He had half a mind to find the Dursleys and give them a piece of his mind.
His godfather hid it well though, he never would have thought that Harry had experienced any of this in his life. Yet there were times his godfather acted and did something odd and at the time Teddy never thought anything of it. But if they were with any of their family members especially Ron, Hermione, Ginny and even George, they always had a knowing sad or angry look on their face.
It used to puzzle him, so he stored those moments away in his mind to go through later and now they were coming back to him clearly. It all made sense. They knew about Harry's abuse and Teddy had an inkling doubt before, but now it was solid fact.
"...dy. Teddy. Teddy?" A hand gently shook him and his head snapped to look at James who was calling him.
"You okay?" he asked with a worried frown.
Teddy slowly nodded and then sighed. He let his body go lax against the couch, not realising he had tensed up so much and gave himself a moment to process everything, closing his eyes.
James looked at Albus and Lily and they both looked concern for Teddy's lack of response.
"Teddy?" James hesitated. "You sure you're okay?"
Teddy opened his eyes and smiled, albeit sadly. "I'm fine, Jamie. Don't worry. It's just quite a bit to process and honestly a lot of things are making a lot more sense now."
Albus straightened up and turned his body to face Teddy, his expression very serious, "did you know?"
Teddy shook his head, "no I didn't." He hesitated, "well I was never certain and it wasn't something I liked to think about. But there were small things, things Dad did that was odd. But I never linked it to... to abuse." Teddy ran his hand through his hair, "I had always thought that it was because of the war. Lots of people were jumpy and flinched at some things, or would always have their back against the wall or..." he gently trailed off.
"But Dad does those things now," said Lily wide eyed, "I mean Harry does, but he's only six and he's doing things that adults would do."
"Dad's been suffering for so long," said Albus, that realisation hit the three Potter children hard. Their loving and caring father mistreated, abused, left out since the time he was but a small child. Their protective, strong and kind Dad, hurt and struggling for God knows how long. Did anyone care? Did anyone find out?
"And no-no one knew?" there was anger in Albus' voice, how could no one had known, surely someone must have seen the signs, surely Harry's behaviour would have stood out to someone.
"I think some people knew," said Teddy in a calming tone. "I think Ginny, Hermione and Ron knew. I'd seen the way they would look at him sometimes and it always felt like they knew something about Harry that no-one else did."
"But didn't they do anything about it?" asked Albus, "they couldn't have just left it, especially Mum. I can't imagine Mum not doing anything."
"Mum would have hexed the Dursleys to next month," agreed James, "No way she would have let them get away with anything."
"Even Uncle Ron," added Lily. They knew their uncle Ron was very protective of their father, especially when it comes to anyone hurting him in any way, shape or form.
Teddy shrugged helplessly, "I don't know. I honestly don't know if they did do anything about it. But I'm sure they must have talked to Harry and knowing Harry he would have told them to leave it. Probably some rubbish like 'it's in the past'." Teddy shook his head, frowning a little. He did find it irritating how Harry would easily dismiss anyone who had hurt or insulted him and not give anyone else a chance to retaliate for him.
"Well let's hope they did do something about it," said Lily, then she looked more resolved. " You know what I bet they did. Dad might have been silly to say it doesn't matter, but I'm sure Aunt Hermione, Uncle Ron and Mum would have done something."
"I'll be disappointed if they didn't," said Albus.
Teddy sighed and ran his hand through his hair. "Is there anything else I need to know?"
It was quiet for a moment until Lily spoke, "I didn't realise things were so bad for Mum."
Her three brothers looked to her, "what do you mean Lils?"
"You know," she implored, "...you know Mum used to say they didn't have much when they were younger. I never thought it was really bad, but after the things Ginny told me, I never realised. Mum was really poor, wasn't she?"
Teddy put an arm around her and hugged her to his side, "yeah, that time used to be pretty bleak. Arthur and Molly had times where they struggled for even the smallest of necessity. But they always had everything they needed." He gave a reassuring squeeze.
"It's probably why Mum never liked it when we wasted food and stuff," said Albus.
"And how she would put her foot down whenever we acted too spoiled," added James.
Teddy gave a little chuckle, "that was you pretty often as I recall."
"I am not spoilt," said James, indignant.
Lily rolled her eyes, "says the guy who was asking for presents earlier."
"That doesn't count, that part of the big brother code."
"No such code," said Teddy flatly.
"Well then there should be."
"Yeah, definitely spoilt," deadpanned Albus.
James huffed and crossed his arm over his chest. "Stop ganging up on me."
They all chuckled gently and silence fell around them. Each of them giving themselves time to process everything and come to terms with the new plan.
Teddy started absentmindedly playing with his ring, twisting it left and right while his mind whirled with thoughts of little Harry and Ginny. He had the urge to go upstairs and check on them both. But resisted, it was late and he didn't want to disturb them.
But... what if Harry was having a nightmare? He couldn't count how many times he had caught his godfather in the kitchen late at night, sitting at the table with a hot drink. He would always give a tired smile and shrug, "just a nightmare." When he was younger it was always "just couldn't sleep." But as he got older, Harry saw no need to hide anything from him and they would both just sit and talk or sit in comfortable silence with hot chocolates.
What if Ginny was sitting up in bed crying, missing her parents? Ginny, who loved her family, who loved the noise, who kept herself busy with everyone, talking, cuddling, listening and always having a baked goodie waiting in the kitchen. Who always knew what to say to ease the mind.
Oh Merlin, he was missing them. Teddy sighed, closing his eyes. With everything going on, especially with himself and Victoire, the guidance of the two most important people of his life was missing. He didn't realise how much he needed it right now.
Lily had turned concerned eyes towards her godbrother when he sighed. Not liking the sound of it and watched as he fidgeted. It was then she noticed the ring on his finger and it took her a minute, before realisation dawned on her and a wide happy smile dominated her face and she couldn't help let out a happy squeal.
All three of her brothers jumped in fright at the sudden sound, Albus nearly dropping his mug and James nearly falling off the armchair.
"Oh Teddy," squealed Lily again, stars practically sparkling in her eyes.
"What? What happened?" asked Teddy wildly.
Lily leaped closer to him and grabbed his hand with the ring, waving it in her grip as the smile nearly split her face.
"Did you really...? Is this really...?" she couldn't even get her words out.
It took a second of confusion before Teddy chuckled, a light dusting of pink showed on his cheeks and he nodded. "I sure did."
He really wanted Harry and Ginny to know first before the kids, but oh well. His grandmother already knew, so at least there was someone he could go to if he ever felt way in over his head.
"Oh Merlin, finally. Do you know how long we've been waiting? We even had bets going on to see how long it would take for you to ask," said Lily excitedly.
She examined the ring critically for a minute, still not letting go of Teddy's wrist, not that he minded. The boys righted themselves and their brains finally caught up to what was happening.
They both gaped at Teddy and James finally spluttered out," y-you're- you're... with Vicky... e-engaged?"
Teddy chuckled at him and nodded.
Albus' face finally broke out into a wide smile and he leaped at Teddy, giving him a hug. "That's fantastic, Teddy. You're going to be officially part of the family."
"What? So, getting called big brother wasn't official enough?" he asked in a mock hurt voice.
Albus drew back and grinned, "of course it was official, and now it's official, official."
Lily was nodding along happily, practically vibrating with excitement, "oh I can't wait to help plan the wedding. It's going to be so romantic."
Teddy chuckled, already imagining all the females of the Weasley clan huddled together, talking about wedding plans.
"You just better take good care of her," came James' voice, surprisingly stern.
Lily and Albus grinned, while Teddy's eyebrows shot up at the protective look on the younger boy's face.
"Victoire is like a big sister to all of us. So, you better not make her cry. Ever. Or you'll have me to deal with," James crossed his arms over his chest and tried to look authoritative, but happiness was beaming from his eyes. Teddy nonetheless nodded seriously.
"I think you know me best, Jamie. I'd rather die than be the cause of her tears."
James relaxed and nodded, "Let it not come to that, but I know you're the best for her." They both grinned at each other and James finally leaped into his arms to give him a hug.
"Congratulations," he said warmly.
"Was that your attempt at being a big brother for Vicky?" asked Albus amused. "I think that was Louis' job."
"He won't mind," said James.
"You better not do that when I'm married," said Lily, cringing at the very thought.
"Oh, not worry," said James somewhat sagely, crossing his arms, "because you won't be. Getting married. Ever".
"No one is going to be good enough for our sister," added Albus, being serious.
Lily rolled her eyes, "oh please don't start. Like you two will have a choice at all on deciding who my future husband will be."
"They don't," said Teddy before both boys could respond. James and Albus deflated at that while Lily grinned "but doesn't mean that they won't try." This time Lily deflated with a pout and her brothers grinned.
"But you better watch out because you'll have a team of Weasley women after you for even acting anything like some Weasley men."
"Well, it's a good thing I'm a Potter," countered James smugly, "and Potter men are very charismatic and persuasive. You can't underestimate us."
"Some of us are also pig-headed and full of ourselves," said Albus shaking his head.
"Well, he does take after his namesake quite a bit," commented Teddy. Remembering all of the stories Harry used to tell them of the Marauders.
"Hey," said James a little indigitated, remembering some of the stories too. "I'm not as bad as Grandpa James used to be okay. I don't bully."
"Thank God for that or Dad would have cracked down on you ages ago," said Albus.
Lily and Teddy nodded while James blanched.
Then Lily looked at Teddy excited again, deciding to get back on track on the real issues. "Putting all that aside, Ted. Who else knows about your engagement?"
Teddy smiled, "Besides you three now. There's Bill, Fleur". They all nodded at that, made obvious sense. No way was Teddy going to propose to Victoire without the blessing from Bill first. It would be near suicide. "And Grandma. Victoire will probably tell Dominique and Louis. I obviously wanted Harry and Ginny to know too, but I guess I have to wait for that."
Both younger boys gave him apologetic looks, acknowledging the accusation at the end. That part was no doubt their fault.
But before both boys could say anything Teddy waved his hand dismissively, "don't worry, it can't be helped now. It'll be just more to look forward to when I do tell them."
"Oh, this is so exciting," explained Lily, almost vibrating with excitement, "you both are the first from our generation to get married." She was practically squealing, "I can't wait to become a God-aunt."
All three men were watching her wearily, before Teddy's hair went a vibrant red to match his blush at Lily's last statement. James snickered at him while Albus looked confused.
"I don't think that's a thing. God-aunt," he said.
Lily shrugged, "there could be."
"I don't think there is."
"Hey there is Godmother, then I'm sure there's God-aunt,"
"Well actually-" started James, who was still smirking at Teddy's embarrassment. He didn't think his siblings noticed Teddy red face.
"Okay, that's enough," said Teddy with a weary chuckle, cheeks still red, but hair slowly bleeding back to turquoise. "I really don't want to have this discussion, especially not with you three."
All three of them pouted at him, but understood and let the topic drop, for now.
Silence stretched for a while, as each sibling either finished off their hot chocolate or were deep in thought.
Lily had sunk into the sofa, her eyes feeling heavy, arms wrapped around herself and missing the presences of her parents. She knew, again, she was being a baby about it, because they were still here, upstairs sleeping. But it was nowhere near the same.
A few more minutes ticked by before... "I miss them."
All three boys looked to the youngest and their heart ached. They missed them too.
Teddy brought her back into his side, giving a one-sided hug, "I miss them too. But you never know, they might turn back to normal soon."
All three Potters perked up, different degrees of sleepiness vanishing with that statement as they looked attentively at Teddy.
"How? What do you know?"
"Did Uncle George tell you anything?"
"Can he reverse the potion then?"
They all looked eagerly at him and Teddy just blinked back in surprise for a moment. He then gave them a fond, but sad smile. "Aw guys, that's... that's not what I meant. I was just trying to be optimistic." He watched them all deflate, the hope fading from their eyes and he felt a pang in his heart.
James ran a hand over his tired face, "I don't think I can do optimism at the moment."
Teddy nodded in understanding and his gaze swept through their tired features. This might not be one of the best situations to be in, but he has to admit that his siblings had definitely raised to the occasion and had handled everything pretty well. Shacklebolt had told him how both brothers had come to his office and with humility and guilt, explained everything and took the blame on their shoulders. A part of him was very proud of that, another part thought it would have been totally unnecessary if they had behaved in the first place.
"Well I have to say though..." he started and waiting for them to look at him before continuing, "I'm impressed." His smile turned proud as their confusion turned to surprise. "You guys have handled this really well, I honestly was expecting to come to a half-destroyed house with Jamie and Al at each other's throats and Lily picking up the pieces. But you're not and you three have been taking care of everything beyond my expectations. So well done."
All three siblings gave him happy, yet tired smiles, gratitude shining on their faces. If nothing else, that was something they wanted to hear, that not everything had fallen to pieces and if possible, made things worse.
"Thanks, Teddy," they chorused.
"No problem, Cubs," he grinned. "Now it's getting late," Teddy slowly got up and flicked his wrist with his wand to make all the mugs float to the kitchen and into the sink. He ruffled James' hair as they all got up, earning a clumsy swat in retaliation. "Let's get some sleep." He gave Lily another hug and messed with Albus' hair too, who gave him a tired glare, earning a chuckle from the older man.
He corralled them all upstairs and into their bedrooms. Albus did a quick check of Harry and Ginny and reassured them all that they were both sleeping soundly.
As soon as James, Albus and Lily's heads hit their pillows they were out like a light. Teddy checked in on them, either tucking a duvet here, taking the slippers off there and turning off the bedroom lights.
He chuckled to himself as he closed Lily's door, how did they even manage getting into bed before he came, he wondered.
His eyes drifted to his godparents' room and his heart ached. He could just imagine knocking on the door and Harry or Ginny answering with their loving smiles and happy faces. He'll just have to wait for that now.
Teddy hesitated in the hallway, debated with himself for a second before making up his mind and making his way to Ginny's room. He knew Al said they were fine, but he still had to make sure for himself. "It's my job after all."
He gently opened the door, glad that it didn't creak, letting the hallway light flood the room. He smiled at the little girl curled up like a kitten. Her duvet was thrown off and she was clutching a small fluffy red cushion to her chest. Her face practically buried in it.
Giving a soft chuckle, he made his way to her bed and gently covered her up again and gingerly tucked her hair behind her ear. Ginny moved a little then and Teddy froze, not sure what he was going to do if she woke up. He either contemplated leaping under the bed or possibly staying as still as possible so she'll not notice him. Which later he would think they were two pretty ridiculous solutions and would probably get him labelled as a crazy person by little Ginny.
But all she did was mumbled a little into the cushion, nuzzling it closer and settled down again.
Teddy gave a sigh of relief and his gaze lingered on his little godmother's face before he made his way out of the room and closed the door gently.
He opened Harry's door next and walked in. Harry was lying on his back with the toy dog tucked next to him and he had one hand buried in its fur. He looked quite adorable with his panda onesie on and sleeping as peacefully as he was.
Teddy sighed and gingerly sat at the end of the bed, the hallway light illuminated his figure, while the darkness of the room still shrouded Harry. To think his godfather was an abuse victim, it sent a cold chill over his body and a very unsettling feeling in the pits of his stomach.
He had seen so many cases, so many, either at the scene of the crime or from paperwork, and it was never an easy pill to swallow. He never got used to it, never not had his heart break each time he heard or saw the number of hardships those children had to go through before they were saved.
His eyes never drifted away from the little boy's young face, his memories bringing forth the afflictions from those cases and he could practically see them in Harry. Sadness turned to protective anger in a split second on that thought and he shut him eyes tight, willing the images away.
No way in hell was he going to let Harry suffer anymore. Not this Harry, it was too late for his Godfather, who had moved on and left those hurts in the past. But this Harry had another chance and by Merlin he was going to make sure that nothing ever hurt him again.
He just sat, listening to Harry's steady breathing, willing himself to calm down. He was safe here; Harry was safe and that's what mattered.
Not being able to resist, Teddy gently ran his hand through Harry's pitch-black hair and moved his fringe away from his closed eyes. Even though he was being as gentle as possible, Harry still ended up moving a little. Teddy froze for a second time, he was seriously trying his luck, and held his breath when Harry's emerald irises peeked out from between his eyelids.
Harry blinked sluggishly, still very much sleepy and eyes half lidded.
"Go back to sleep, Harry," breathed out Teddy, giving a little pat on his shoulder.
Harry gave a little sound, similar to a kitten being poked awake. "You otay?" he mumbled, his voice soft and heavy with sleep.
Teddy's heart warmed and it took him a second to answer, "I'm okay," he replied kindly. "More than okay. Go back to sleep, Cub."
Harry stared at him a second longer, his eyes almost sparkling in the dark before closing again, and drifted back into sleep. He was too sleepy and comfortable to really want to wake up. He turned on his side and brought the toy dog closer to him, cuddling it tight.
Teddy smiled, overwhelmed with love and affection for this little one. He leaned down and place a light kiss on the side of Harry's head.
Not wanting to try his luck any more than he had, he got up and made his way out the room. Closing the door gently, he finally made the trek back to his room.
Even at six years old, his godfather knew just what to say, this time round not very much at all, but for Teddy, it was enough for him to know he was okay and that they all will be okay.
"One step at a time, Teddy," he reminded himself again and finally went to bed.
(A/N) Well… there you have it, chapter nine… in all its 'whatever-you-want-to-call-it' glory.
This chapter has been a challenge, in many ways than one. The amount of re-reading, editing and dreaded writer's block I had for it has been horrendous. I had actually completed this chapter a week or so ago and just when I went to upload it, I lost one quarter of it for some unbelievably unforeseen reason and I just sat there staring at the screen in horrified disbelief and mentally screaming my head off.
But it's up now, which is a tremendous relief and I just hope you all liked it, it's worth a review and it was hopefully well received. You guys have been outstandingly patient and the support and encouragement I received had been very much welcomed.
I have to give my three sisters a big thank you as well, they had rediscovered my stories and basically voiced yours (and undoubtedly theirs) outrage at how long it was taking me to update this story, made me realise that you all are still waiting and encouraged me to finish it. No doubt nearly six and a half years wait is nothing to sneeze at.
Now to gives you a brief summary of what's been going on since my last update – I got married, moved cities, changed jobs (tedious and frustrating affair I tell you), been blessed with children Masha'Allah, Covid happened (as you all are aware and hope you're all safe), got ill, then illness on top of illness (involving family and community) and major bereavements.
Next Chapter: Teddy gets used to having little children about and much more.
When will the next update come I hear you asking (or typing), my answer is a simple I don't know. Let's just revel in joy of having this chapter updated for now.
Sorry for any spelling and/or grammar mistakes, I tried my best (the amount of proofreading I did should attest to that, but I'm not perfect). Please let me know what you think (smiles and points down to the review box/button), now you know what to do, please review.
