AN: So, here is that second chapter. Read and review, please! Also, if you've got any ideas or questions or anything like that, just let me know! Enjoy :)
"But, what makes them fly?"
"Nick, I don't know. Ask Remus. If anyone would know, it's him."
"And, you said portraits can talk, right?"
"Yes, Josh, they can."
"Wicked."
"So, the wand chooses the wizard?"
"That's what Ollivander said, Em."
"There is no way that Unicorns are even real."
"For the third time, Olivia, yes they are! I've seen one."
Harry sighed and scrubbed at his forehead. His friends were muttering continuously and his head was starting to throb. He sent a pleading look up to the amused Remus and Sirius. It was probably the twentieth he'd shot at them, begging them for their help. Finally, they cracked. Sirius smiled and grabbed Olivia and Josh by the scruffs of their necks and hauled them up beside him as they made indignant noises. Remus fell back and positioned himself between Nick and Em. Harry was blissfully between the two groups and finally free of questions.
It was surprising how hard it was to tell a muggle about the wizarding world. Harry could barely focus on that for feeling jittery. They were walking down the street, heading towards Grimmauld Place. They'd called Harvey back and Josh had cheerfully paid the ride. It had been amusing to see Sirius sprawled out into Remus' lap up front. They had stopped a few blocks away from Grimmauld Place and were walking the rest of the way. And, the whole time, it had been filled up with Harry telling the others everything.
The wizarding world was surprisingly harder to explain than he'd thought. He couldn't believe that Hagrid had managed all those years ago. Though, Harry highly suspected it had more to do with his age than actually understanding what Hagrid had told him. It would all be more clear when they actually saw some of it, Harry assumed. Besides, the misfits were a curious bunch and wanted to know everything. Particularly Em, who was looking more animated than Harry had ever actually seen her since she was talking to Butch.
Remus, however, looked quite content with the misfits. When he told about werewolves, because Josh hadn't let it go, they hadn't even batted an eyelash at his less than pleasant depiction of himself and his species. He appeared to like the questions, and the frequent winks Josh kept throwing him seemed to amuse him as much as Sirius' annoyed gaze as reaction did. Harry sighed as he listened to them badger Sirius and Remus about anything and everything.
Harry couldn't deny it, he had tuned them all out. Their words had become background noise and Harry had gotten lost in thought. He hadn't meant to, of course, but it just happened. So, that was why he jerked violently when an arm descended around his shoulder. He snapped his head up and blinked at his bemused godfather's face. Harry relaxed and gave a tired smile and Sirius gave a tired smile back. Harry could admit that his godfather looked better and better as time went on, as he shed the residue Azkaban left on him. Still, he also looked as tired, if not more.
"You alright, pup?" Sirius asked him quietly. Harry glanced up and saw that Remus had taken on all four of the teens but didn't looked frazzled at all.
"Born to be a professor, wasn't he? Yes, Sirius, I'm alright." Harry replied.
"You look different." Sirius told him and Harry chuckled.
"So, do you. Happier. Remus been good to you?" Harry asked, meeting Sirius' eyes. Sirius grinned, once again looking ten years younger.
"Yes, he has." Sirius said before his smile fell. "That's okay with you, isn't it? I mean... I want you to be okay with Remus and I."
"Just love who you love and be happy. That's all." Harry said, quoting Olivia with a fond smile at the wisdom she had passed on. Sirius looked at him in delighted surprise.
"You do look different, Harry, but I think you truly are different." Sirius told him.
"Maybe." Harry said cautiously.
"I mean that in a good way. You seem more confident."
"Might have something to do with the fact that I look like a regular juvenile." Harry mused and Sirius smiled.
"Noticed that, did you? Your father would've been so enthusiastic about your new look. Your mother would've been supportive. They would've loved it. James, especially. He had a thing for the rebels."
"Yeah?" Harry asked in amusement. A tiny smile curled his lips, one he couldn't contain. It made warmth settle in his chest to hear Sirius reassure him.
"Yeah. It was one of the reasons he kept me around. Anyhow, I think you look brilliant, not that my opinion really matters but-"
"It does." Harry cut him off, looking up at him seriously.
"Well," Sirius cleared his throat, clearly pleased, "I will tell you that I like it, then."
"I'm the same bloke, though, Sirius. I really haven't changed that much." Harry told him. Sirius snorted and reached out to ruffle his messy hair.
"Well, forgoing the fact that old women will hide their bags when you're near, I don't suppose you have. But, I wasn't teasing you about seeming more confident." Sirius quipped.
"Same old me, Sirius, I promise."
"The same old you would've egged a house, then?" Sirius challenged, nudging him to soften his words. Harry grimaced anyway.
"I wasn't going to, not at first. I don't particularly like getting in trouble, you know, but sometimes I just can't help it. This time was my fault, I'll admit. It was just..." Harry trailed off, biting his lip.
"They didn't pressure you, did they? I did my fair share of pressuring Remus all during my school years when I shouldn't have. You shouldn't feel as if you have to do anything you don't want to. If they-"
"Sirius, I wanted to. If I really hadn't, they wouldn't have forced me and I know that. Relax." Harry said quickly. Sirius sighed and nodded, squeezing the arm around Harry's shoulder.
"Sorry."
"No worries, Sirius. It was just... It felt good to mess with the Dursleys. Do you know how many times I was forced to wash their car but never was allowed to go anywhere unless they had no choice? Do you know how many times I had to weed and mow the lawn in the beating sun without any reward or even acknowledgment? It was a relief to finally just get back at them. Besides, they treat me like a juvenile so... Why not show them what a real juvenile is?"
Sirius pulled him to an abrupt stop and Harry blinked up at his godfather. Sirius was peering down at him, his eyebrows furrowed in concentration. Remus and the others kept walking but Remus slowed down the pace. Harry felt nervous at what had Sirius so...well, for a lack of a better word, so serious.
"Revenge? That's what that was?" Sirius asked him solemnly, expecting a real answer.
"I- No. Yes. No. All I know is that it was a relief after everything they've put me through and how they treated me. It was worth it. It was exciting and I hope that the Dursleys are knee deep in egg yolk right at this moment." Harry said.
"They deserved it?"
"Yes."
"Okay, Harry. Just remember that you can't get back at everyone who has ever wronged you. Sometimes, it really isn't for the best."
Harry stared up at his godfather, his own green eyes blinking. Used to, he would've let it go. Maybe Sirius was right and he had changed. Before, he would've brushed off what he wanted to say and kept it to himself. But now, he wasn't going to hold it back. And, why should he? Merlin, Sirius was right. He was different, even if it was just that he had more defiance.
"That's rich, coming from you." Harry blurted out. Sirius blinked and opened his mouth and then snapped it shut. Harry held strong, despite the guilt he felt. He wasn't about to take it back.
"I'm sorry?"
"No need to apologize."
"I wasn't-"
"I'm just saying, Sirius, that it is rich coming from you. You tell me that revenge isn't always the best way and trust me, I know that. Not from personal experience but from you. It is a bit hypocritical because it was your need for revenge that put you in Azkaban. I don't blame you, don't even disagree with you. It's just- Well, if you hadn't went after Peter that night, I might've never needed to egg the Dursleys home."
And, Harry knew that he wasn't explaining it all that well but he believed what he said. Sirius stared at him blankly for a long moment, looking as if he hadn't heard a word Harry had said. Harry almost regretted saying what he did because he didn't doubt that it would hurt Sirius. But, he didn't have the capacity to hold back anymore. He needed Sirius to understand that he loved him despite all that Sirius had ever done. Finally, Sirius moved and he frowned hard.
"You're right, of course. I am sorry-"
"Stop apologizing. I never ever said that I blamed you for anything. I just said the truth. And, the truth is that you are a loyal man with a tendency to be a hothead. A lot like Ron, actually. I don't think dad and mum would blame you either."
Sirius didn't seem to have an answer to that and simply pulled Harry into a tight, quick hug. Harry smiled into Sirius' shoulder, feeling happy that he was honest and Sirius wasn't angry or upset. Sirius pulled away, giving a small smile, but kept his arm around Harry's shoulder. They started back walking and Harry watched Sirius watch Remus. Harry liked to think that Sirius would be okay, no matter what. He was reminded that he had nearly lost Sirius once and he put his arm around Sirius, sighing in relief.
"Everything will be okay one day." Sirius promised.
"Yeah, it will."
"So, what is that little redhead got over on you?" Sirius asked him, turning to smirk at him. Harry wrinkled his nose and huffed.
"Her name is Olivia and I have no idea. That's the problem. It could be anything."
"Ah, made the mistake of letting them see you in multiple displays of humiliation, did you?" Sirius laughed.
"Shove off! That's not what it is. Olivia is cheeky and really, really good at getting what she wants. I don't doubt she could tell you, or anyone, something about me. Maybe it's that I snore." Harry muttered, rolling his eyes. Sirius snickered.
"You sleep near her, then?" Sirius asked lightly, smirking down at Harry.
"Oh- Uh, no... Well, I mean- Yes- Or, actually... We- Well, we've slept together. Wait- that came out wrong! I just- We haven't..." Harry stammered until Sirius burst out laughing, ruffling Harry's hair again.
"Relax, pup, I was kidding. But, did you really sleep with her?"
"Yes. All of us did. We all shared a bed." Harry admitted, blushing heavily as he remembered waking up to Olivia cuddled into his side more than once.
"Interesting, Harry." Sirius said, managing to keep a straight face. Harry growled and pinched him.
"It isn't like that! We're all just friends."
"Friends who share the same bed and hold hands. Do you snog and shag too?" Sirius asked playfully. Harry blushed even harder as he was reminded of the time Olivia snogged him thoroughly. Sirius stared at him before realization washed over his face.
"Don't-"
"You have, haven't you!? Which one? The twin? I hope not because that'd be weird. The redhead? It wouldn't surprise me. Your father had a thing for redheads also." Sirius laughed in delight.
"Oh, shut up, Sirius! I'm not with any of them. And, who do you know it wasn't Josh or Nick?" Harry huffed.
"You're gay?" Sirius asked doubtfully.
"I don't know. And, if you must know, it was Olivia. And, it was nice but no, we will probably never do it again. I don't have a thing for redheads. I rather like blonds, actually." Harry snapped and the cringed when that last sentence fell past his lips. Merlin, what was he saying!?
"Your discomfort amuses me." Sirius told him.
"It's not funny, really."
"You know, I didn't mention Nick or Jacob-"
"Josh."
"Whatever. I didn't mention them because they clearly have a thing for each other." Sirius finished.
"So obvious, isn't it?" Harry snorted.
"Almost sad, really."
"Well, they don't talk about it. We just keep waiting for it boil over and happen." Harry said.
"Mhm." Sirius hummed.
"It was Olivia that made me think about you and Remus. She made me see the world in a whole new way." Harry informed him. Sirius pursed his lips.
"We were dancing around each other for a while, Harry. Just recently, after everything happened at the ministry, I staked my claim so to speak."
"Oh? How'd you do that?"
"That blasted clumsy cousin of mine has gathered a rather hopeless crush." Sirius huffed with a pouty scowl. Harry thought back to the way he had seen Remus eyeing both Sirius and Tonks.
"Maybe not so hopeless, actually." Harry murmured. Sirius glanced at him sharply.
"What?"
"You're the jealous type, aren't you?" Harry asked, amused. Sirius sniffed in a way reminiscent to what Draco Malfoy sometimes did. Harry cursed himself for even thinking about that git again.
"I'm not jealous. I just- I'm possessive. It has a lot to do with Padfoot. Marking territory is second nature to me. Literally."
"Well, I'm sure that Remus is more than happy with you. I'm just saying, Tonks is rather cool."
"That's all good and fine. She can be cool away from Moony." Sirius tutted. Harry had to swallow a laugh.
"So, when did you realize you fancied him, anyway? I mean, it is Professor Lupin, after all. It's a bit bizarre, really." Harry said.
"I realized it about the time Tonks decided that she would flirt with him. It made Remus uncomfortable and it made me...not jealous...but not happy. It was a bloody mess, coming to terms with my feelings."
"Why?" Harry asked curiously.
"I never expected to fall in love again." Sirius admitted, going for nonchalance and failing.
"Again? Who did you love originally?" Harry asked and Sirius paled. He cleared his throat and his face smoothed out.
"Look at me, discussing romance with my godson. Not very appropriate, is it? I don't think-"
"Sirius." Harry said sternly. Sirius tutted.
"It was Remus, way back when we were in Hogwarts. We had a thing. But then, the rat mucked it all up. No, scratch that, the war mucked it all up. No, scratch that again, I mucked it all up. I never expected to be given another chance or to even feel the same way. But, love is fickle and demanding, I suppose."
"How lovely. Your school sweetheart." Harry teased, hoping to get Sirius to relax and loosen up again. It worked as Sirius laughed and ruffled Harry's hair once again. Harry grinned at him.
"Oh, bother." Sirius muttered, his eyes shifting up. Harry turned to look and seen that they had arrived.
"I know you hate it here." Harry mumbled.
"Remus makes it better. As do you." Sirius assured him. Harry frowned.
"I'll take you for a walk on some days. Quite frankly, I'm shocked that you are out in the open now. It really isn't safe and I don't want you hurt."
"Relax, pup. The whole wizarding world, ministry and death eaters and Voldemort included, are in a state of disarray. Things are to chaotic now for me to be focussed on. However, I'll take you up on them walks."
"Why is everything chaotic?" Harry asked in confusion. Sirius looked at him incredulously.
"Harry, you were missing. Of course, the whole wizarding world would be going nuts."
"Wait, everyone knows!?" Harry shouted, pulling to a stop. Sirius' eyebrows shot up.
"Yes. Dumbledore was under the impression that the ministry had taken you and had to go poking around. The ministry found out and the next day, your disappearance was everywhere. According to Snape, Voldemort is equally stressed. Apparently, he is unhappy that you disappeared and he missed his chance." Sirius explained.
"Of course, he would be. He missed his chance to kill me. Again." Harry snapped bitterly.
"Yes, but now you are back so..." Sirius said with a shrug. Harry frowned.
"I can't believe my disappearance was all over the wizarding world." Harry muttered almost petulantly. Sirius laughed and removed his arm, clapping him on the back lightly.
"Come on in and let's face their wrath together."
"What do you deserve wrath for?"
"Well, when Remus gave me the news, I left even when I wasn't supposed to. Dumbledore is surely to be furious but I don't mind. You are most important." Sirius said with a shrug as they reached the others.
"Thanks, Sirius." Harry murmured.
"Ready?" Remus asked them. Harry sighed and nodded. The others blinked rapidly as if in a trance.
"I can't- We have to go back." Nick murmured, fidgeting and bouncing.
"There is nothing here." Olivia huffed.
"Muggle repelling charms. They'll be fine once they are truly inside."
"I see it fine after Remus gave me the slip." Em commented, frowning at Nick. She walked over and grabbed his hand to try and calm him down.
"I feel like I'm going to be sick." Josh muttered, swaying on the spot. Sirius frowned.
"Hurry up and go in."
Harry didn't hesitate. He waved his friends to follow him and they did, slowly but surely. Remus and Sirius took the rear, making sure the others wouldn't run. Harry fiddled with the knob, continuously turning to stare at his friends in concern. Josh was starting to look green and Nick looked panicked. Olivia looked surprisingly angry. Harry got the door open and they all shuffled in. As soon as the door clicked shut, the other relaxed and stared around in shock.
"HARRY!"
Harry whirled around and was nearly knocked off his feet as someone collided with him. His vision was obscured by thick brown hair that tried to enter his mouth and strangle him. He spat out the curls and patted Hermione on the back. She pulled back, her face already stern as she prepared to lecture him.
"What were you thinking, Harry Potter!? You could've been put in jail and-"
"Hermione, I was put in jail." Harry pointed out.
"For longer! What would you have done had Remus not been there, hmm? Of all the irresponsible things to do and-"
"Harry! Mate, what happened to you!?" Ron blurted out as he and his siblings came out from the kitchen. Ginny halted and gaped at Harry like she was back in first year and the twins looked genuinely impressed.
"Ron, I was talking." Hermione snapped.
"Lecturing more like. Harry would've tuned you out, anyways." Ron snorted.
"Hey, Harrykins. Don't you look massively rebellious? Mum is going to freak out." Fred laughed.
"We love it." George said in approval.
"Thanks. Er, guys, I want to introduce you to my friends. This is Josh-"
"Is that a troll leg?" Josh muttered, starting to walk over. Harry reached out and snagged him, pulling him back. Josh tsked but stayed put.
"This is Olivia."
"I'm surrounded by gingers and I feel honestly attacked right now." Olivia said, crossing her arms and glaring at Ron as if Ron had kicked her cat.
"Right, don't mind her. This is Nick."
"I just want to understand how this wasn't here and then suddenly was. It's magic, I know, but how does that even work? How does the magic know who's a muggle and who isn't?"
"Curious as you can see. Hermione, you'll love him. And, this is Em. No, we're not twins."
"I live with nuns."
Harry sighed and wondered what to do with himself. How could he have such diversity in his groups of friends. He looked between the two groups and frowned. He cleared his throat and turned back to his original group of friends. Well, they were all his friends. So, wasn't that one whole group? It was hard to think about and he didn't want to.
"Okay, this is Hermione."
"Still don't think you were right to egg the Dursleys, Harry, and-"
"She could go on for hours, trust me. This is Ron."
"What's that even mean about gingers?"
"I said not to pay her any mind. This is Ginny."
"Harry, you have a tattoo."
"She doesn't actually sound that high pitched normally, I promise. This is Fred."
"I'm better looking than George."
"And, this is George."
"Fred has it all wrong but I don't have the heart to tell him, honestly."
"Right, now that everyone has met everyone, I'm sure that all hell will break loose within fifteen seconds."
And, Harry was not wrong.
…
Dinner was an awkward affair. Harry sat in between Em and Sirius and was in sight of everyone, which turned out to be absolutely dreadful. Mrs. Weasley kept staring at him as if she was entirely disappointed with his whole new appearance. Mr. Weasley was in a deep conversation with Olivia on how bicycles worked. Ginny couldn't stop staring at him or whispering to Tonks. Remus kept fidgeting and avoiding Tonks' eyes. That wasn't even all, actually.
Nick and Hermione were getting along swimmingly and Ron kept glaring at Nick accusingly. Josh had taken to snickering with the twins and flirting blatantly with Remus to set Sirius off. Em kept asking Mad-eye to regale stories of grand magic, which he graciously indulged her in. Sirius kept trying to get all of Remus' undivided attention and Remus kept getting frazzled as everyone kept pulling his attention away purposefully. As for Harry, well, he tried to stay as quiet as possible and stay out of the line of fire.
It was possibly the most terrible day of his life. First, he gets arrested in front of his ex professor, then his muggle friends find out he'd been lying to them about his whole life, and then he had to introduce those offended muggle friends to his magical friends. The whole introductions had dissolved into a mess in about ten seconds flat. It didn't even get to fifteen.
Luckily, Molly Weasley wasn't a mother of seven for nothing. She called order, got everyone calmed down, and then caught sight of Harry. She'd been faint with shock and demanded that he get that lip ring out that instant. He had politely refused and everything had went down hill again from there. It took Mad-eye bellowing loudly and clomping his leg continuously for everyone to shut up. Mrs. Weasley had stiffly said that dinner was ready and everyone could talk then.
Harry had to admit that it could've been worse. It was Hermione who had tentatively delved into talking to the other friends. Of course, she had went into the safe route and struck up a conversation with Nick. Everyone, or mostly everyone, slowly followed her lead and it was like walking on a tightrope, or witnessing someone else walking on a tightrope because he was stubbornly staying out of it. Or, he had assumed that he was as he'd planned to.
"Isn't that right, Harry?" Josh asked loudly. The twins were wearing identical devilish grins and Josh looked seconds away from giggling. Harry, up until this point, hadn't been paying attention. He did now.
"What?" He asked cautiously.
"Isn't it right that this recent experience with the police wasn't your first?" Josh asked in delight. Harry frowned and looked at the other misfits.
"What are you on about?"
"Remember Dawson?" Josh asked with a smirk. Harry's face cleared and he scowled.
"Shut up."
"I'm just saying, everyone here thinks you're so innocent. If only they knew." Josh teased. Harry caught sight of Mrs. Weasley stiffening.
"Josh, shut up."
"No, Harry, he's right. They have no idea naughty you are." Olivia said with an exaggerated wink.
"Okay, all of you shut up. Yes, Em, that includes you too." Harry muttered, fiddling with his fork. Em snapped her mouth shut and sulked.
"Naughty? Harry's not- Harry, what sort of trouble with the police have you been in?" Hermione asked curiously. Harry felt a headache coming on.
"Yes, Harry, do tell." Sirius said, arching an eyebrow.
"I didn't go to jail." Harry said quickly. Sirius smirked, looking faintly amused.
"Because, I didn't let you get caught." Em interjected.
"What!? You didn't let me get caught!?" Harry blurted out, turning to her.
"Right."
"How do you figure?"
"I'm just saying. If I hadn't pulled you with me, you would've kept on standing there, gaping at the policemen."
"Excuse you! I ran faster than you." Harry huffed.
"I am sorry to tell you this Harry but I was dragging you along."
"No, you weren't! I was running ahead of you."
"Okay, but it doesn't matter!" Olivia interrupted quickly with a roll of her eyes. "The point is that you two beat us there."
"Speaking of, how did we manage that? You lot had a head start and only one policeman after you. Harry and I had two and-"
"Really? We did?" Harry cut in.
"Mhm."
"You think I would've noticed."
"You didn't notice you were bleeding so why would you notice who was pursuing us?" Em asked.
"Right but still. I'm normally more observant."
"Adrenaline took over, that's all. Anyway, back to my original question. How exactly did we manage to beat you all to the woods? You had a head start, had less policemen after you, and had the shorter route."
"Josh kept trying to throw pinecones at the policemen and Nick kept tripping." Olivia explained.
"I did not!" Nick snapped.
"I got the fat one in the face." Josh snickered.
"You- Harry, you outran the police?" Hermione asked weakly. Harry jolted, having forgotten the others. They were staring between the misfits and him curiously.
"Two apparently." Harry replied with a shrug.
"And, just what were you doing to outrun said police?" Mrs. Weasley asked tersely.
"Well... It's complicated." Harry mumbled.
"We got into a fight." Em supplied helpfully.
"Harry!" Mrs. Weasley burst out, scandalized. Sirius looked at him, his eyebrows furrowed. Harry groaned.
"Look, it's not like that! There was this group of prats and they were being snots. A fight broke out and I couldn't just abandon my friends." Harry explained.
"Saved my life, he did." Josh said dramatically, swooning at Harry and blowing him a kiss. Harry halfheartedly caught it and put it in his pocket.
"Did he just-" Ron started.
"So, our little Harrykins isn't so innocent, eh? Do tell us more." George said with a grin.
"Well... There was that one time that he broke into a house with us." Josh said with a chuckle.
"Harry!" Mrs. Weasley cried again.
"It was his house!" Harry shouted, pointing to Josh.
"I do not care! That is still breaking and entering!" Mrs. Weasley shouted.
"It wasn't like that-"
"Molly, cut him some slack." Sirius spoke up, reaching out to squeeze Harry's shoulder.
"Yeah, mum, it is only against the rules if you're caught." Fred laughed, high fiving George.
"I will not condone that sort of behavior!" Mrs. Weasley snapped.
"Mrs. Weasley-"
"No, Harry! This is ridiculous. You've been missing! No one knew what happened to you and you were gone for weeks. Then, you come back, showing up without any explanation, and expect us to not ask questions. What's worse, you look like a regular ruffian! You have a tattoo and a ring in your lip!"
Harry opened his mouth but she was on a roll.
"We don't know what happened or where you've been and we've been worried sick! And now, now, we learn that you've been going about and getting into all sorts of trouble while we were looking for you. We had no idea if you were dead or alive and we were doing everything we could!"
Harry tried to say something but she wasn't done.
"We thought you were kidnapped by the death eaters or dead! Sirius, Remus, Ron, Hermione, Ginny, we all were frantic! And, you were out and about with this lot of- of, well, juveniles! They've clearly been nothing but a bad influence for you've-"
Harry stood up so fast his chair toppled over. Mrs. Weasley fell silent, her breathing coming out in short pants. Harry was clenching his jaw so tight that it nearly hurt. He braced his hands on the table and leaned forward to meet her eyes. His heart hammered and his head throbbed. And, He felt worse than he ever had before. He felt angry and like he was going to throw up all over the set table.
"Let me make one thing very, very clear, Mrs. Weasley. These 'juveniles' are my friends and I'm a whole lot more like them than you're willing to accept. And, you have them to thank for keeping me sane for those weeks that you were searching for me. Because, if it wasn't for them, I might've lost my mind in the behavioral center, or prison, whichever fits your fancy, that the Dursleys shipped me off to."
Harry whirled around and stalked out the room and out of the house, slamming the doors loudly behind him. He took a deep breath and ran.
…
Harry shut the door quietly behind him, wincing when it creaked. He peered around cautiously, half expecting Mrs. Weasley or Sirius to descend on him immediately. The hall was dark and the whole house was seemingly silent. He took a few steps, biting his lip and still, no one came out to lecture him. He sighed with relief and made to head up the stairs to hide. However, someone leaning against the banister and staring at him had him halting in his tracks.
"Hey, mate."
"Hey, Ron. They sent you to brave me, then?"
"Basically. Where'd you get off to?" Ron asked quietly, shuffling forward.
"I just went for a run."
"Oh? Make you feel better?"
"No." Harry muttered and Ron snorted. They stood there in awkward silence for a bit before Ron sighed heavily and walked over to stand beside him.
"You look so different."
"Good different or bad different?" Harry murmured, somehow feeling vulnerable when it came to Ron.
"Good, I suppose. You seem more...comfortable in your own skin. If that makes sense."
"Sirius says I'm more confident."
"Yeah, maybe."
"Ron?"
"Yeah?"
"I'm sorry I yelled at your mum." Harry mumbled. Ron looked at him in surprise.
"She didn't mean it, you know. She was just scared for you, we all were. Everyone was thinking the worst and the Dursleys were basically confirming it."
"I'm sorry that you were all worried." Harry said sheepishly, feeling awkward.
"Were you really sent to a juvenile facility?" Ron asked, looking at Harry with a faint smirk.
"Yeah, I was."
"The others, the muggles, or, well, the others you brought... They told us all a bit about the place."
"Oh?"
"Yeah. And, they told us a bit about you, too. They were quick to take pride in the fact that they corrupted you. Especially that Josh bloke."
"They didn't corrupt me. I just... The Dursleys really made me angry by forcing me to go to Karlbergs. It was ridiculous." Harry muttered.
"Bloody idiots. That's all they are. I've mentioned for Fred and George to send them some...gifts. After they told us about that place, Hermione was more obliging to explain how the muggle post worked."
"Use owls. They really freak my uncle out." Harry said, cracking a small smile. Ron laughed.
"Mum was practically frantic after you left. She was apologizing to the others in that flustered way of hers. She'll no doubt try and smother you as soon as we go back into the dining room."
"Go back? In there? Are you mad?" Harry muttered, staring at the door that seemed to loom ominously.
"Don't be a prat, Harry. Mum wants to make it right. Besides, Fred and George bet me three galleons that I couldn't get you back in." Ron huffed.
"Sounds like a personal problem, mate."
"Harry! Help your best friend out here!"
Harry stared at the earnest expression on Ron's face and caved. Saying no would be like kicking a very adorable puppy. Impossible, really, unless you were evil. And, Harry wasn't. Besides, hearing Ron solidify that after everything weird that had happened over the past weeks, they were still best friends... Well, it made him happier. Ron was his first friend ever and nothing was worth losing that and no one could replace that.
"Alright, fine." Harry sighed. Ron beamed.
"Brilliant. Come on, then. Oh, by the way, the others...well, they aren't that bad."
"I know that, Ron. I just hope you all can see it."
"I think we do. The twins love that Josh bloke and Hermione seems extremely happy with Nick. The ginger has found that Ginny and her like the same hairstyles and your twin discovered Tonks' abilities and has been following her around like a puppy."
"Not my twin, Ron. And, that's fantastic! I'm glad everyone's getting on." Harry said honestly.
"Well, after what they told about that place, everyone was a lot more accepting. It sounds dreadful, honestly. Mum immediately made cookies and tea and tried to stuff them full of it." Ron said. Harry came to a stop right outside the door.
"Wait, what stories did they tell?" Harry asked quietly, hand twitching around the doorknob. Ron suddenly looked uncomfortable and shuffled his feet.
"They told us about how the adults treated you lot..." Ron muttered. Harry tensed.
"The punishments. They told about the punishments."
"Yeah, mate, they did."
"So, everyone is getting on with each other because you all feel pity for us? Is that it?" Harry asked sharply. Ron looked at him with a frown.
"Of course not. The twins already have the hots for Josh's mischievous streak. Ginny loves finding a kindred spirit in hair. Tonks adores when people like her for her quirky ability. Hermione is in absolute heaven with her new friend who can carry on an actual intellectual discussion. Mum just wants to take care of anything that might need it."
"Oh... So, not pity then..." Harry mumbled sheepishly. Ron snorted and rolled his eyes.
"No. They all seem like genuine people. I don't think I've seen dad so happy and I'm entertained so... Sirius and Professor Lupin are happy that you're okay, even if they get a pack of muggles with you. Quite frankly, we all are. So, no, not pity."
"It's strange..." Harry mused, leaning against the door.
"What is?"
"Just seeing everyone together. It's odd because I always missed you lot when I was at Karlbergs but I wouldn't dare to leave them. It's nice is what I'm trying to say." Harry admitted.
"I suppose. Personally, I can't wait to see what Headmaster Dumbledore and Snape do."
"Where are they, anyway?"
"I don't know. I've heard whispering, of course. I tried to listen and get some information to tell you but the order is getting more tricky and sneaky. Still, they think I'm too dumb to pull anything of so..." Ron trailed off with a grin.
"Merlin, have they seen you play chess? Fools, that's what they are. Thanks for listening for me, mate. What can you tell me?" Harry asked, leaning forward.
"Well, I know it has something to do with You-Know-Who and Draco Malfoy."
"What!?" Harry hissed, nearly tripping even though he wasn't walking. Ron nodded.
"They kept mentioning about the path Malfoy was going to take."
"What's that even mean? Do they mean...like, a death eater? Do you think Malfoy took the mark?" Harry whispered furiously.
"Nah, Malfoy is a git but he's too young. What's You-Know-Who want with a kid, anyway? What use would it be?"
"Ron, Voldemort is a sick fuck." Harry deadpanned. Ron winced and whether from the crude word or saying Voldemort, Harry didn't know.
"That's true. But, what could it mean about Malfoy's path, then?"
"Hmm... I don't know. What else did they say?"
"Well, Moody mentioned something about Snape summoning Dumbledore right now about Malfoy and that's why Dumbledore isn't here now." Ron said.
"So, something happened recently?"
"I suppose."
"D'you think he's alright?"
"Who?"
"Ron! Malfoy. Do you suppose he is okay?" Harry snapped, frowning. Ron looked at him incredulously.
"I don't know and I don't care. What does it matter? If he isn't, well...at least he can't go about causing any mess for us."
"Ron, that's...that's terrible."
"Harry, it's Malfoy."
"I'm well aware." Harry said shortly.
"What do you care, anyway?" Ron asked him.
"I don't." Harry said quickly, averting his eyes.
"Mhm. Forget it. Let's go on in. I bet Mum is about to bust a vein waiting on us."
"Yeah..."
They opened the door and entered, Harry with wary eyes and Ron with a broad grin. The sight that met Harry's eyes truly startled him. Mrs. Weasley was currently pouring Ginny and Olivia some tea, motioning to Olivia's hair. Remus and Sirius were talking with Nick, both looking worried for the teen. Hermione was at Em's side, both talking enthusiastically about something, if their wide gestures were anything to go by. Tonks and the twins were all laughing with Josh, who was doing some weird dance. Mr. Weasley was fiddling with a muggle Rubik's cube that Harry recognized immediately.
"Fred, George, you owe me three galleons!" Ron announced triumphantly. Everyone fell silent and looked up. The first to move was Olivia.
"Harry James, what is the matter with you?" She snapped, marching over with a glare. Harry immediately leaned back, his eyes widening.
"Er... Nothing?" He said but it came out as a question.
"This poor woman had just made it very clear that everyone was worried about you being missing and what do you do? Huh, Harry? You leave. Why would you do that?" She scolded.
"I'm sorry..." He offered weakly. Olivia scoffed.
"Sorry, are you? Well, it isn't me you need to be telling, is it?"
"But I-"
"Go." Olivia ordered, pointing to Mrs. Weasley in a no nonsense manner. Harry pursed his lips and huffed but obediently moved towards Mrs. Weasley. He adopted a sheepish expression as soon as he saw that Mrs. Weasley was nearly in tears. Already.
"Mrs. Weasley, I am sorry, really. I shouldn't have yelled and I shouldn't have left. I just-"
"Oh, Harry! I'm so sorry, too! I shouldn't have ever insulted these wonderful kids! I had no idea and just... Oh, I am so sorry!" Mrs. Weasley said and walked over to hug him fiercely, trying to smother him.
"No, no, I'm sorry that the Dursleys caused so much trouble. They knew I was at Karlbergs, they'd sent me there. They shouldn't have ever strung you all along like that. If anyone is to blame, it's them."
"Don't you worry, Harry, we've got you covered on that one." George reassured him.
"Brilliant!" Harry called, his voice still muffled in their mother's chest.
"Mum, let the poor bloke go. You're suffocating him." Ginny said with a soft laugh. Mrs. Weasley abruptly moved back, wiping her face and sniffling.
"I've got some treacle tart and tea. Would you like some, Harry?" She asked. He brightened at that.
"Oh, that'd be wonderful."
"Alright, and then after, we can figure out the sleeping arrangements."
"Well, no matter what, I call the bed with Harry." Olivia called out.
"Ah, no... I call it." Josh said immediately, suddenly more alert.
"Ahem, I was actually going for that one." Em said.
"No, I get Harry. He let's me cuddle up to him." Olivia insisted stubbornly.
"He's warm, Olivia! I could feel his body heat on the other side of you." Josh whined.
"Okay, but I'm his twin, so..."
"Not really!" Olivia and Josh snapped.
"Why don't you just let Harry decide, then?" Nick spoke up.
Harry, during the conversation, had ducked his head to hide his flaming face. He could feel the others eyes on him and was immediately embarrassed. It sounded so...naughty when put that way. In truth, he knew that the misfits didn't realize how weird it was to go about sharing beds but he'd known. He did know but the thought of sleeping without one of them, after he'd experienced it, didn't sound appealing.
"Yeah, Harry, who do you want to sleep with?" Josh said confidently. Harry lifted his head and worked to ignore the various other eyes besides the misfits on him. He pursed his lips.
"How about this? Josh, you sleep with Nick. Yes, alone, just keep your hands to yourself. Olivia and Em, why don't you two share a bed, then?" Harry said reasonably. There! That solved that.
"What about you?" Olivia asked, arching an eyebrow.
"I have my own bed." Harry admitted awkwardly.
"Still, you can join us. And then, we don't have to keep our hands to ourselves." Josh said with a flirtatious wink. Harry shook his head.
"Nick would never agree." Harry pointed out.
"I don't know, Harry... You're a good looking bloke." Nick teased and Josh grinned.
"See, Harry? You're good looking."
"Har har. That's still a no." Harry huffed, rolling his eyes. Josh tsked.
"So many possibilities. You're interested, I can tell. Fine, fine... We'll wait until you aren't in such denial." Josh said playfully.
"Maybe thing one and two are interested. They're good looking blokes as well." Nick said, tilting his head as he eyed the twins.
"Hey! Stop teasing them." Harry said quickly as Fred and George shared a speculative look.
"Fine, fine, sorry." Nick apologized.
"Well, if you are not sleeping with them and that's clearly because they are not your cup of tea, what about us? Em and I would be absolutely wonderful bed partners." Olivia offered, winking suggestively.
"Em's my twin so that'd be weird." Harry replied flatly.
"We can kick her out of the bed. Matter of fact, which room is yours? I'll sneak out."
"Hey!" Em shouted, affronted.
"Olivia, as much as the idea sounds absolutely brilliant, I'll have to pass." Harry muttered, rolling his eyes as she pretended to swoon at his emphasis.
"Hmph. Well, maybe the other redhead, then? She's cute." Olivia said, nodding to Ginny who blushed brightly. Harry coughed to hide a laugh.
"Okay, stop it, you idiots. You can't go about making everyone uncomfortable just to suit yourselves. Just let Sirius and Mrs. Weasley assign you a bed and if I hear about you trying to sneak in others beds, I will do something very imposing." Harry said.
"That's your threat, Harry? Really?" Olivia snickered.
"Ooh, I'm so scared..." Josh laughed.
"You should be. Now, where's that treacle tart?"