"Dolores, I have told you repeatedly that Potter is only a pawn. It is Dumbledore we should concern ourselves with." Cornelius Fudge rubbed his face. "Everyone knows that Potter is close to the Weasley family, and had I been in the same situation, I would have allowed the boy to join them, as well. Now, I have backed you in every ridiculous new rule you've wished to institute, but I have yet to get anything from you in regards to what Dumbledore is up to, and until I do, I will not let anymore of your decrees pass. And another thing, you'd better reign in your squad of students. I'm getting letters, and some of them are more than a little unpleasant."

Dolores Umbridge gave a small smile and nodded her head in understanding. "Very well. I will focus my attentions on the Headmaster, though it will have to wait until the end of the holiday, as he has elected to leave the castle."

"Has he?" Fudge's eyes bulged. "That is most unusual."

"I agree, Minister. Other than his brother, who lives in the village, Dumbledore has no other family. I have no idea where he might have gone."

"And, of course, it's too late to assign someone to follow him. Alright. We will just have to wait until he returns. You should be able to set up some sort of way to monitor Dumbledore by the time he returns, and do be discreet. If any of the other teachers even suspect…"

"Then I will have to bring up their reviews, and decided whether or not their teaching methods are up to our new standards." Umbridge smiled, and it made Fudge shudder a bit.

Umbridge's face disappeared from the fire and Fudge went back to his desk to try and ease his throbbing headache. Things had spiraled so far out of control, and now Cornelius had very little choice but to remain on the path he had chosen. The alternative was entirely too worrisome. He had to be able to prove to the public that the ancient Headmaster, the man who stood for so much good in their world, was losing his faculties and was using fear to press his agenda.

The worst decision in all of this had been allowing Dolores Umbridge to be his eyes and ears within the school. She was far too focused on the Potter boy. Time and time again, she had tried to convince him to try the boy for the murder of Cedric Diggory, and lock him away in Azkaban.

Fudge was not a brilliant man, but he wasn't stupid, either. There was absolutely no proof that Potter killed Diggory. It was far more likely that the Bulgarian Seeker, Viktor Krum, had killed Diggory while under the influence of Barty Crouch Jr.'s Imperius Curse. How a known Death Eater had managed to infiltrate the school, and remain hidden for a year, much less being free for Merlin only knew how long…

Fudge rubbed at his eyes again. Things had become so messy. He made so many bad decisions, and he could not back out of any of it. It would make the people think he was weak, or indecisive. No. He was not about to do anything to show weakness. Dumbledore was the one going mad, not Fudge. He would do his best to reign in Umbridge and prove that Dumbledore was trying to sow the seeds of discourse. It would be Cornelius Fudge that the people would remain faithful to. They would see that there was no darkness, and that things were now the best they had ever been.

"I thought I would be meeting your suitor?" Mr. Greengrass said as he embraced his eldest daughter on the train platform in London.

"As did I." Daphne said sadly. "I don't know what happened, but he left last night. I'm told it was an emergency."

"Should we expect him at Christmas dinner?" Mrs. Greengrass asked, looking hopeful. Daphne could only shrug. She turned around to look at the train, as if Harry might miraculously step off the crimson steam engine.

"He wasn't sure if he would be allowed the last time we spoke." Daphne admitted heavily.

"Perhaps we should go home. Maybe the young man has sent you a message." Mr. Greengrass said gently. He took both of his daughter's bags and shrunk them down, before placing them inside his pocket.

Daphne was terribly worried. She was supposed to met Harry in the Great Hall, and they were supposed to enjoy the train ride back to London in each other's company. She had hoped she would be able to curl up next to him, and be held tightly in his arms the entire way. She even liked the idea of falling asleep in his embrace.

But, that didn't happen. Instead, she was met by Neville and Hermione, who both looked terribly frightened. According to Neville, Harry had had some kind of nightmare about Ron's father. He and Ron had gone to Professor Dumbledore, and had never come back. That morning, Hermione had learned that Ginny and the Weasley twins had been summoned to Dumbledore's office late the previous night, and had also not returned.

"He swore that Ron's dad was hurt really bad." Neville said while they attempted to eat breakfast. None of them had any real appetite as they were all very worried.

"So, it's likely that Dumbledore sent them to St. Mungo's to be with their father." Tracey remarked.

"But, why Harry, too?" Daphne asked.

"Because he was staying with them over the holiday, and he's like family to them." Hermione said.

"Harry said he was staying with his Godfather." Daphne pointed out.

Hermione's voice became like a whisper. "That's true, but he can't go about advertising that he's staying with a wanted fugitive. Besides, the Weasley's are staying at the same place."

Daphne nodded in understanding.

"Come on, the carriages are lining up." Tracey said, throwing down her half eaten toast. The four students rose and collected their baggage to take with them, and went out to await their own carriage. When they finally managed to get one, Daphne went to the front and slowly and softly groped at the air, until she felt it bump against what she guessed was the head of the Thestral.

She had learned at last what these strange horse like creatures were during one of the first classes that Professor Hagrid had taught upon his return. He assured them all there was nothing to fear from them, and that they had a bad reputation because only a person who had witnessed someone die could see them. Very few people could see the creatures, and she was astounded to learn that besides Harry, Neville could in fact see the Thestrals. He had always seen them, and had been terrified of them until that lesson. In fact, one of the Thestrals seemed to really like Neville and had followed him about for most of the class.

The train ride had been very boring without Harry. Even Malfoy had not come to harass them. Apparently, he only bothered if Harry was around. All during the journey, Daphne felt a pang of jealousy whenever she looked at Hermione and Neville. She wanted to be in Hermione's place, with her boyfriend holding her while she read, or at least just to feel Harry next to her.

Halfway through the train ride, Astoria had come by to wish Harry a Merry Christmas, and had been more than a bit distraught to learn he was not aboard the train. Daphne was not surprised, as Harry had become like a older brother to her sister. Their relationship was hard to define in any other way. Daphne wondered sometimes if her younger sister might know something that the two young lovers had yet to see for themselves.

The trip back to the Greengrass home was quick. As soon as they found a dark alley, Daphne's parents took hold of their daughters and Apparated them to the foyer of their home.

"Put your things away, then come down for supper." Mrs. Greengrass said as their father enlarged their bags once again and handed them to his daughters. The two girls went up the stairs and separated to go to their rooms. Daphne heard the thud of her younger sister's bag, and the quick footsteps as the younger girl ran back down the stairs. Daphne lingered in her room a bit. She felt disheartened that she had been unable to at the very least say goodbye to Harry. Now, she had no idea if she would even see him until they returned to school.

"Daphne?"

The brunette turned to see her father carrying a very distinct snowy owl on his arm.

"It wouldn't let me take the letter."

"Hedwig." Daphne practically shouted. The snowy owl opened her wings and glided to Daphne's out stretched arm. She gave a low, warm hoot as she presented her leg with an envelope tied to it.

"Am I correct in guessing this owl belongs to your suitor?" Mr. Greengrass asked. His face was as impassive as ever, but his tone carried a hint of mischief, which made Daphne smile even brighter.

"Yes. This is Hedwig, Harry's familiar. She is quite possibly the smartest owl ever."

"Even more clever than Archie?" Her father raised an eyebrow. Archie, or Archimedes, was the Greengrass family owl, a very big eagle owl, with intense gold eyes. Mr. Greengrass loved that owl and could not believe that any other animal could ever be more clever than his precious bird.

"Of course not, Dad." Daphne rolled her eyes, and then winked at Hedwig, who puffed her chest proudly.

"Well, try not to keep your mother waiting. She's most anxious to hear about how things have been going. You really should try to write home more often." He gave a rare smirk as he left her alone with her letter.

Daphne quickly untied the letter, and Hedwig went to perch on the headboard of her bed, tucking her head under her wing.

Daphne,

I'm so sorry that I couldn't ride the train with you, but something terrible happened. Please try not to worry. Everything is ok, for now. I can't tell you anymore, and you know why.

I've asked about coming to see you on Christmas, and the request has been passed along. My godfather is hopeful that I will be able to join you and your family, though he says that it's likely that some measures might have to be taken to assure my safety, whatever that means.

I miss you, and I'm sorry that I didn't at least get to say goodbye properly. Please write me back soon.

Love,

Harry.

P.S. I've told Hedwig to remain with you until you can send a letter. Even a short one will do. I love you.

Daphne clutched the letter to her chest. He was safe, and that was what really mattered. Plus, they could write to each other over the holiday, at least. Daphne set the letter on her bedside table so she could read it again before she went to bed. She would write to him the next day and, with a bit of luck, she would actually get to see him on Christmas.

Harry sat alone in the bedroom he and Ron shared within the walls of Number Twelve Grimmauld Place, simply staring out the window into the night. Ron and the other Weasleys were all at St. Mungo's Hospital checking in on Mr. Weasley, who had suffered a serious attack by a snake.

They had learned that the Weasley patriarch was going to be okay, and he had been found just in time. Mrs. Weasley had nearly broken his ribs when she had thanked him. The Weasley children had all thanked Harry for his part in their father's rescue, even though none of them really understood how it happened. Except Ron.

Earlier that day the two boys had managed to find some time alone, and Ron had asked about Harry's vision.

"I thought the lessons with Snape were supposed to block it all out." Ron had said.

"So did I." Harry shrugged, feeling uncomfortable with his former best friend. "I haven't had a nightmare in weeks, and I haven't felt any of his emotions in quite a while. I was exhausted when I came back from lessons."

"You've always said that you felt weak after lessons. Do you think that might have been the reason?" Ron probed.

"I suppose. Snape was more vicious than he'd ever been before. Maybe he weakened me enough to allow for Voldemort's thoughts to get into my head. Maybe he wanted me to see it, but didn't think I'd do something to help your dad."

"But, you said you were the snake..."

"I said I was seeing through the snake's eyes. I could feel it's thoughts…or maybe just it's instincts. I don't know. But Voldemort can control snakes, so I think I was seeing what he could see." Harry shrugged.

"What I can't figure is why they want to block it out. It's kind of useful, isn't it?" Ron looked curiously at his friend.

"But, I can't control it. And what if he can see into my mind? He'd know everything. I told you that I think that I'm being made to learn all this for a reason. They're preparing me for something."

"I just wish we knew what."

Harry had thought about that most of the day. Why was it so important that he learn Occlumency? What were they going to teach him, or show him? Was he going to learn about the weapon that Voldemort apparently wanted?

"How are you doing, kid?" Sirius asked. Harry turned to see his godfather leaning in the doorway. "You've been holed up here most of the day."

"Lot on my mind." Harry shrugged.

"I imagine so. It's not your fault, you know. Hell, if it hadn't been for you…"

"I know." Harry nodded, turning back to the window. "I just wish I knew what this was all about. Why is he so intent on killing me? What did I do?"

"I wish I had all the answers for you. Your parents knew, but I made them not tell me. I figured the less I knew, the safer they would be." Sirius said, placing a comforting hand on Harry's shoulder. "You're doing great, though. You're teaching a bunch of kids how to defend themselves. That's no small thing. And, you're probably the bravest kid I've ever known."

"How do you mean?"

"Gods, Harry, most any other kid who had to deal with what you have had to would likely have given up a long time ago. But not you. You've stepped up each time and managed to overcome just about every obstacle, and been triumphant. I know you aren't the sort to brag, but you've done thing most grown ups would never even dream of doing. What's more, you've come face to face with this madman, and walked away with your life each time. That's saying something."

"But, I was lucky." Harry argued.

"Yeah, I agree. You were extremely lucky. But, you were also smart, kid. You somehow managed to overcome your fear enough to think things through. You didn't freeze when it came down to it. That's more than luck."

Harry thought about it for a few moments before nodding his understanding.

"I sent a letter to the old man about getting you to your girlfriend's for dinner. If he doesn't get back to us by Christmas, you and I will figure something out together. I'd really hate for you to not get to see her until you get back to school. Besides, this Jonathan Greengrass might be a good ally for you. Man on the Wizengamont might come in handy one day."

Harry thanked his godfather and the two of them went down to the kitchen to fix themselves something to eat. The Weasleys returned very late that evening, and Harry heard Ron stumble into bed.

Two days passed in relative quiet anticipation of Christmas, and Mr. Weasley's release from the hospital. For Harry, it was nearly excruciating. He had received a letter from Daphne, thanking him for writing to her and letting her know what had happened. She was hopeful the he would be joining her family for Christmas, and given him the floo address, so that he could just show up at the appointed time.

However, there had not been any word from Dumbledore on the matter, and Harry was becoming anxious that he would not be allowed to go. Sirius assured Harry over and over again that it was going to happen.

"Look, Harry." Sirius grinned when the two had gone to feed Buckbeak. "You are going to go to that dinner if I have to take you myself."

"You can't risk being caught. The Death Eaters know you're an animagus and have likely informed the Ministry." Harry argued.

"Do you honestly believe that a dog is my only disguise, Harry? Have a little faith in your godfather."

"I do have faith in you. I just don't want anything happening to you."

"Thanks, Harry, but I'll be fine. Besides, I think I know one or two people around here who'd be willing to give me a hand in a rather grand sort of prank."

Harry was filled with a sense of foreboding at those words.

It was late on Christmas Eve when word from Dumbledore finally arrived. Harry was in the study playing a rather boisterous game of exploding snap with all the Weasley children.

"Ah, good, you're all here." Sirius said, shutting the door behind him. "It seems the old man does not believe it would be safe for Harry to visit his girlfriend tomorrow evening."

George held out his hand as Fred slapped a silver coin into it.

"I told you." George smiled proudly.

"I had a fifty-fifty chance." Fred said glumly.

"So, the plan is on, then?" George asked.

"What plan?" Harry and Ron asked together.

"Sirius is calling it Operation Lover Boy Escape." Ginny shook her head. She had a rather sour expression on her face. "I wanted to call it something else."

"But it wasn't very nice." Fred grinned. "Me thinks our little Ginevra does not approve of your choice of lady friend."

Ginny punched her brother and put a bit of distance between her and Fred.

"Listen up, we have a lot to go over if we are going to pull this off." Sirius said. "Tomorrow afternoon, the Weasleys will be going to visit Arthur in the hospital. That's when we're going to move…"

Daphne awoke early on Christmas morning. She slipped from under the warmth of her blankets, and went to her window to look out at the snow covered ground. She rubbed her arms trying to warm them from the biting cold.

"CHRISTMAS!"

Daphne nearly fell to the floor from fright when Astoria slammed open the door to awaken her sister. It was tradition, ever since Astoria could walk and speak the glorious word. The youngest Greengrass was the Christmas morning alarm clock, waking up everyone in the house so they could open gifts.

Last year, Daphne had remained at Hogwarts, and not remembered it was the holiday, because her sister had gone home. She had not opened her gifts until quite late in the morning. It still amazed her how that one little tradition had made that Christmas feel …wrong, somehow.

"Merry Christmas." Mrs. Greengrass said as she was now passing Daphne's room. She stopped and waited for the eldest Greengrass child to fetch her dressing gown and slippers and join her in the hallway. Mrs. Greengrass wrapped a warm arm around her daughter's shoulders and placed a kiss on the top of Daphne's head.

"Shall we see what Father Christmas brought you?" Mrs. Greengrass smiled.

"There's really only one thing I want, and I doubt it's under the tree." Daphne said quietly. Her mother gave an encouraging squeeze as the began to descend the stairs.

"Finally." Astoria said as her sister and mother joined her and her father in the sitting room. What followed was nothing short of a cyclone of torn paper and ribbons and bows, flying through the air as the Greengrass family opened gifts.

Daphne was more than a little happy with her growing pile of gifts. New clothes were always welcome, especially since her mother had such great tastes. There was a few new books, and a beautiful silver charm bracelet from her father.

She was disappointed however to find that there was no gift from Harry. She decided to hold out and see if he were bringing it with him. And if it turned out that he was not going to come to dinner, well, then he would have to make it up to her in spades.

After breakfast, Daphne took her gifts up to her room where she could put them away. She took a hot shower and dressed simply in jeans and one of the new jumpers from her mother. Since there was nothing to do until dinner, Daphne settled onto her bed, where she could read one of her new books.

It was a small book, and Daphne got lost within it's pages. She lost all track of time, until Astoria appeared in her door once again, a very broad smile on her face.

"It's a bit rude to be sitting up here when you're boyfriend is downstairs being grilled by Dad."

"What?" Daphne looked up, not really hearing what her sister said. Astoria simply grinned at her older sister for a moment.

"If you don't get down there, Dad might scare him away."

"Harry's here?" Daphne asked surprised. "When did he get here?"

"Does it matter?" Astoria looked confused. "Get off your big butt and get down there!"

Daphne didn't need telling twice. Stopping ever so briefly to look herself over in the mirror. Daphne stampeded down the stairs like her hind end was on fire, and came to a stop just outside the Sitting Room where she could hear her father talking with someone. A woman.

Daphne stepped around the corner and saw her mother and father speaking with a woman with purple hair and Auror Robes. Next to her was a very familiar head of messy black hair.

Harry glanced over his shoulder and smiled warmly when he spotted his girlfriend.

"Merry Christmas." He smiled. Daphne practically leapt into his arms and gave him a soft kiss.

"Merry Christmas to you." She said softly.

"Well, that's that then. I'll see you in four hours, Harry." The woman smiled mischievously. She shook hands with Daphne's parents and stepped into the Floo, disappearing in a burst of bright green flame.

"Dinner will be in an hour." Mrs. Greengrass smiled politely, taking her husbands arm and leading him away. "Why don't you show Harry around the house until then."

Daphne smiled brightly and took Harry's hand.

"Who was that woman?" Daphne asked when they were out of the sitting room.

"Tonks. She's my godfather's cousin, and an Auror."

"Really? Does she know about…" Daphne gave Harry's scarred hand a squeeze, and Harry's expression darkened.

"Yeah. She knows. They all do, and they say they can't do anything." Harry said a bit darkly. "Doesn't matter. She's the Defense teacher. Everyone knows that job is jinxed."

"A bit optimistic, don't you think?" Daphne chuckled. "What happened to you? Hermione and Neville said you had a nightmare about Ron's dad?"

Harry explained everything that had happened since the night before holiday started. He told her that Mr. Weasley had been found and that he was now in the hospital, and it looked as if he would be fine. He then went on to tell his girlfriend about the letter that was written to Dumbledore about coming to dinner, and the Headmaster's response that it was unsafe.

"So, how did you get here?" Daphne asked, looking rather impressed that Harry would go against the Headmaster's wishes.

Harry was awoken by a pillow from Ron to the head. "Wake up, Harry. Happy Christmas!"

"Merry Christmas." Harry smiled at his friend. The two boys eagerly began opening their presents.

"Harry." Ron said, holding up a bright orange jacket. The back was emblazoned with a cannonball and two large C's. "Thanks, mate. This is…This is really great."

"It's nothing, Ron. Really. Thanks for the sweets."

Ron looked away embarrassed. Harry knew that it was likely all Ron could afford, and the redhead wasn't the most creative. But, the thought still meant a lot to Harry.

He'd gotten quite a few gifts this year. He flipped open the book, Giants, Their Noble History, from Hagrid. Harry hoped that the Care of Magical Creatures teacher was not going to bring a giant to class, as his history lessons had taught him that they were not the nicest of beings.

His next gift was from Sirius. A long box which contained something Harry never would have expected. A sword.

"Whoa." Ron said, as Harry lifted the sword out of the box. "Who's that from?"

"Sirius." Harry said a bit awed.

"Wicked."

The blade shone in the early dawn light, and Harry thought he felt the handle vibrating as if it might have been alive. He laid the weapon back in it's box and set it aside, making a note to ask Sirius about it later.

The two finished opening gifts, both of them receiving a homework planner from Hermione, which Ron tossed aside, rolling his eyes.

"She means well." Harry shrugged.

"Yeah, but it really isn't up to her if we fail or not." Ron said.

"Oh, come on, Ron. If it wasn't for her, you would have likely failed your first year."

"Yeah." Ron shrugged. "But, I've really been trying this year. Kind of hard to slack off when all your friends ever do is study."

Harry shook his head and went back to opening gifts. Ron picked up the homework planner again, examining the soft black leather. With a sigh he set it down on top of his pile of gifts. He really had made a lot of mistakes with his friends, and now he'd lost any chance he ever thought he might have had to be Hermione's boyfriend. Neville really was good for her, and as soon as they got back to school, he was going to make sure the once shy boy knew it.

Harry picked up his last gift. It was from Daphne. A dragon hide wand holster for his wrist. According to the instructions, it was charmed to prevent his wand from being Summoned away from him. The hide was from a Hungarian Horntail, which made Harry chuckle.

After finishing with their gifts, Ron and Harry went down to join the rest of the occupants of Number Twelve for breakfast. It was here that Sirius' plan went into motion. It was also the worst part of the plan, in Harry's opinion.

When Mrs. Weasley wasn't looking, Fred slid a sweet over to him, tapping one side of the colorful candy, which Harry tore off, and popped into his mouth.

"One day, I'll make them all pay for this." Harry thought a few moments later as his head hung in the toilet bowl. "If I didn't love Daphne so much…"

"Well, it's clear that you've gotten some sort of bug." Mrs. Weasley said, feeling how clammy his forehead was. "Perhaps it's best if you remain in bed the rest of the day."

"But, I wanted to go see Mr. Weasley too." Harry said woefully. Mrs. Weasley smiled at him, which made Harry feel badly for lying to the woman. She was always so kind to him, it felt like a betrayal.

"I'm sure Arthur won't mind. Now, get on up to bed, and I'll make sure Sirius looks after you the rest of the day."

As soon as he was alone, Harry finally managed to get the other half of the Puking Pastille into his mouth, and his nausea evaporated at once. A few minutes later, Sirius popped his head in the bedroom.

"Get to it."

Harry leapt out of bed to shower and dress in some new clothes that Sirius had provided.

"It won't do wearing your cousin's blankets. These are much nicer, and I believe they're in your size." The man smiled as he presented Harry with a pair of dark pants and a nice black shirt.

Twenty minutes later he was downstairs looking dashing, according to Tonks, who was waiting in the kitchen with Sirius and Remus, who looked rather upset. Harry had his Invisibility Cloak and Daphne's present in his hands.

"We can't use the floo, so you three are going into London." Sirius said.

"You'll be wearing your Invisibility Cloak the entire time." Remus said firmly. "You are to do exactly as we tell you, no matter what. Is that clear?"

Harry nodded. It was obvious that his former defense teacher did not approve of this plan. Still it made Harry feel very fond of the werewolf that he was choosing to help him.

Harry donned his cloak and took Tonks hand as she took Remus', it would appear to all the world as if to lovers were taking a winter stroll. Remus hailed a taxi, and the three climbed inside. The cabbie chattered away about politics and such, as Remus nodded politely.

The journey took a bit, and Harry enjoyed watching London go by his window.

"'Ere we are." The cabbie smiled toothily at Remus and Tonks. Remus paid the man, and they got out of the cab. Tonks took Remus' hand and they waited until the felt Harry's hand join theirs.

"Merry Christmas." Tom, the owner of the Leaky Cauldron shouted as they entered.

"Good afternoon, Tom." Remus smiled. "I'd like a pint, if it isn't too much trouble."

"I'll only be a moment." Tonks smiled as she and Harry went to the Floo. Tonks stepped inside the fireplace and gave a small wave of her hand to Harry for him to join her. Harry felt Tonks grip him tighter as she tossed the Floo powder into the flame and spoke their destination.

Tonks and Harry fell out of the Floo in the Sitting Room of the Greengrass home. Jonathan Greengrass rose from his seat as the Auror stood up.

"So sorry, are you Jonathan Greengrass?" Tonks asked. Jonathan nodded slowly as his wife stood up as well.

"Aw, good. My name is Tonks, and I'm here to present Mr. Harry Potter."

Harry took his cloak off and smiled nervously at the rather stone faced man before him.

"Harry Potter?" Jonathan asked, looking the young man over before finding the famous scar upon the boy's forehead.

"Yes, sir. It's good to finally met you in person." Harry smiled as he offered his hand. Jonathan took it and gave it a firm shake.

"Jonathan Greengrass. Allow me to introduce my wife, Abigail."

Harry knew at once where Daphne gleaned her beauty from. Mrs. Greengrass was a stunningly beautiful woman, with sharp, intelligent eyes, and wavy brown hair, not unlike Daphne's.

"It is a pleasure." She said as she took Harry's hand.

"HARRY!" Astoria shrieked as she hugged the teen tightly. "Thank you for the charm bracelet. I love it."

"You're welcome. Thank you for the scarf." Harry smiled as he pointed out the garment he was wearing. Astoria's face reddened a bit, but she spoke quite non-chalantly.

"It was nothing."

"Tori, would you mind telling your sister she has a guest?" Mrs. Greengrass smiled kindly. Astoria nodded and with another smile at Harry left the sitting room.

"Miss Tonks, will you be staying for dinner, as well?" Mr. Greengrass asked.

"No, sir. I am only here to make sure that Harry will be safe. He's rather important to more than a few interested parties."

"I understand. Well, we shall do our best to make sure he stays safe while in our company."

"Well, then, I will be back to escort him home around eight o'clock this evening."

"Merry Christmas." Harry said. The three adults turned to see Daphne entering the room. She looked as if Harry was the only one in the room. She slipped her slim arms around his neck and kissed him tenderly. Jonathan Greengrass was about to clear his throat when his wife shook her head, and his daughter broke the kiss.

"Merry Christmas to you." Daphne smiled at her boyfriend.

"Well, that's that then. I'll see you in four hours, Harry." Tonks said with a wink. The young Auror shook hands with both Daphne's parents before excusing herself and using the Floo to go back to the Leaky Cauldron.

"Dinner will be in an hour." Mrs. Greengrass gave a warm smile as she took hold of her husband's arm. "Why don't you show Harry around the house until then."

"You really spent the morning puking just to come see me?" Daphne asked, a small smile on her face. "You did brush your teeth, right?

Harry gave his girlfriend a wry expression, and Daphne captured his lips. "Yep, you did. Thank you for being considerate."

"I won't even tell you what they wanted to do to me." Harry smiled in return. "I hope it isn't too late, but I wanted to give this to you in person." Harry said as he held out Daphne's gift.

Daphne took the small package and gingerly opened it. Resting on an impossibly thin gold chain was a small heart shaped stone of the most brilliant blue.

"This is beautiful." Daphne gasped. Harry took the necklace and slipped it around her neck, fastening it securely. He captured her lips as he finished.

"Thank you, Harry."

"Thank you for the wand holster. I think it'll come in very handy."

Daphne smiled and melted into Harry's arms. It was so nice to be back in his arms again. On top of it, she was home, and she was showing him around her home, giving him a look into her life that they had only ever talked about. She hoped that one day she would get the chance to see where he grew up, and get a real look into his life, though she knew he was not proud of his life away from the wizarding world.

"I hope you're ready."

"For what?" Harry asked a bit nervously.

"Dinner. Daddy's going to have a ton of questions. He's been rather looking forward to me bringing a boy home so he could play the 'overprotective father' role. However, I don't think he ever imagined I'd bring home the Famous Harry Potter."

Harry gave a rather audible gulp as Daphne took his hand and began leading him to the Dining Room.