Chapter 1: An Unforeseen Encounter
Disclaimer: I don't own the Harry Potter franchise. It belongs to JK Rowling and Warner Brothers. I'm just having some fun with it.
Warning: THIS STORY IS EXPLICIT. IF YOU'RE UNDER 18 OR THAT'S NOT FOR YOU TRY ANOTHER STORY.
Note: A new story. This one will be Harry / Gabrielle. The story takes place several years after book seven. I forgot how old Gabrielle was supposed to be in book 4, but here I made her 8 years old. This would make her 18 and Harry 24 in the story below. There is no actual smut in this first chapter, but it will be in future chapters as the story progresses.
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Harry Potter slumped in his chair, praying for a quick death. Somehow Ron had convinced him to show up tonight. At the moment, he only wished to be at home, alone.
"Wait, really? Harry, not again."
Harry downed his whiskey glass. "Sadly, yes."
Nevile turned from Ron to Harry before leaning forward. "So, your fiancée, Amelia, the woman you were engaged to for three months now, left for America to join a Covent?" Harry didn't bother to answer. Min hadn't left the country yet, but she had dumped him.
Harry, Ron and Nevile were at a table, waiting for the rest of their classmates to arrive. Today was the fifth year reunion party for their year. Or as Neville put it, five years since we kicked Voldy's slimy butt.
The place was quiet. As it was early, everyone inside sipped on mugs of ale or drank pitchers of Butterbeer. Harry? He just downed his fifth shot of Firewhiskey.
Seamus and Dean joined them. "I heard a rumor from my cousin. What's this about Harry's love life?"
Dean spoke up. "Is it true? Harry, what is it about you and the witches?"
The noise in the Three Broomsticks ratcheted up as more and more guests arrived. Harry glanced left and right for the exits. He didn't want to be here, to go through this again. All eyes were on him as Ron detailed his failed romances.
"… I know! He can really pick them." Ron waved his arms. "I don't know how he convinced my sister to leave him, but she did. For a Quidditch career."
"Oh yeah, and let's not forget Susan, who — last I checked — is still in South America, discovering herself." Dean blurted out, taking another sip of his drink.
"Or how he turned Daphne into a lesbian after only 6 months of dating." Nevile interjected with a snicker.
Harry let his head hit the table. "My life is a mess. Can we drop it now?"
Four heads all turned to Harry and responded together. "No."
Ron continued. "We should have known after the first girl you ever dated broke down crying from a kiss that—"
"For Merlin's sake!" Harry stood up and stormed through the crowd and through the front door.
His friends all turned to glance at each other, shaking their heads. A newly arrived Bill Weasley broke the silence by asking, "What's bothering Harry?"
Nevile laughed. "You can either hear the story now or read about it in Witch Weekly tomorrow."
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Harry stumbled his way toward the Hogshead. It wasn't the nicest of places, but it promised privacy and booze, lots and lots of booze. So focused on his destination, Harry collided head on with a young woman turning the next corner.
Despite the alcohol and mood, his seeker reflexes were still sharp, and he caught his unsuspecting victim before she fell.
"Sorry." Harry steady himself and turned dismissively, ready to continue his lonely march, when a hand on his forearm captured his attention.
"arry?" a soft voice asked. Turning in surprise, Harry blinked hard a couple times, trying to make out the face of the young woman in front of him.
"Do I know you?"
"It's me, Gabrielle," the woman said with a frown. "Are you…are you drunk?"
"NO!" Harry blinked as the ground swayed beneath him. Harry's vision spun. 'Wow, ok might be a little drunk.' Harry told himself.
A giggle escaped her lips. "You do know me," she insisted. Harry squinted. The world threatened to flip upside down, and Gabrielle had to reach forward and catch Harry from falling forward.
"Thanks. Fluer? No, wait…Gabby. Gabrielle Delacour? I do know you. You're Fluer's little sister. From the tournament. What, ten years ago?"
"Its Gabrielle, 'arry. No one calls me Gabby or Fluer's little sister."
"I see why," Harry said, noticing the size of her fully developed breasts in contrast to her hourglass waist. He remembered Fluer having a dancer frame. Full breasts for her size, but proportions more toward the athletic side. Gabby, on the other hand…
"'Arry, you're staring at my breasts," she said with a grin.
"Sorry." Harry's eyes moved up into her pale blue eyes and blinking gain. He couldn't quite focus on her face.
"You really are drunk."
Harry sighed. "Its been awful. The whole year, really."
"Well, let us go get something to eat? And maybe a sobering potion. I've 'eard of a place in 'ogsmeed that has fish and chips and I've been dying to try them."
How he found his way to the tavern and at a small table, Harry didn't know. He was too heavy for her to carry. And yet, here he was.
A petite, well-manicured hand presented a small vial in front of his face. His eyes slipped past it and focused on the hand instead. Harry found the smooth, flawless skin a contrasted with the dark vial. His eyes fixated on her ruby red bracelet.
"Drink up."
Harry grimaced at the aftertaste of dirty socks. But the potion brought immediate focus. He took in the room, the table, and the girl across from him. Her face reminded him of a younger Fluer. And she had the same long platinum blond hair, except for a stripe of midnight black hair that started above the left side of her forehead, a dark river in a sea of blonde.
Harry slumped back in the chair with a sigh. "Sorry." He said glumly.
"Apology accepted. So, dare I ask?"
"Hogwart's reunion gathering."
"Mmm, and do you always get drunk and wander the back roads of 'ogsmeed at these gatherings?" Gabrielle mused.
"Well, no. Not willingly."
Gabrielle laughed. A high angelic laugh which sent a flutter in Harry's chest, but then she fell silent, clearly expecting a further answer. The silence dragged on for a few minutes as they ate more chips.
"How 'ave you been?" Gabrielle broke the silence. "I 'ear from my sister you're getting married?"
"No." Harry answered sharply. "We broke up yesterday. She's joining a Convent."
"Non, you can't be serious?" Gabrielle responded.
"Yes," Harry's fist struck the table. "I've been dumped four times in the last three years. My life is anything but serious at this point."
"I am so sorry," Gabrielle responded, reaching across the table to lay a hand over Harry's fist.
Harry shrugged absentmindedly. His gaze drawn to her hand again. His eyes drifted up her slender arm and to a face with genuine worry and concern.
"Why aren't you laughing too?" Harry said in genuine surprise.
"I imagine some may find it funny, but your pain is real."
"Why don't you tell me about yourself?" Harry said. He had to change the subject. "What have you been up to these last few years?"
"O…well, after the tournament, I went back to France. My parents were none to 'appy about my participation. Here I was, visiting my sister at 'ogwarts. The next thing I know I'm waking up in your arms at the edge of the lake."
"That…I didn't know, sorry."
"O, It's not your fault. We were both unwilling participants of the dog and pony show."
Gabrielle brushed a stray hair. "I've been attending Beauxbatons since the year after the tournament. I tried to go to 'ogwarts, but my parents would not 'ear of it."
"It's a good thing you didn't." Harry added. "What with Voldemort and his Death Eaters. Hogwarts would not have been safe for anyone."
"In 'indsight, that is probably true." She downed the last of her drink in a very unladylike manner. "I did just graduate and I'm 'ere visiting my sister and 'er husband. By the way, Fluer's pregnant with their second. She's due any day now."
"Where are you living?"
"I'm staying in Fluer's guest bedroom for now. Free lodging in exchange for babysitting."
Gabrielle adjusted her long blonde hair again. She was very attractive, and he couldn't help but notice her full smile. It also didn't hurt that she had very impressive curves and perky breasts.
"'Arry. You're staring at my breasts again." Gabrielle smirked.
"I'm trying to figure out how I mistook you for Fluer when we first met. You're much prettier than she is." Harry commented. "I mean…umm…"
Gabrielle blushed and lifted the empty vial on the table, focusing on it intently. "I'm sure this was a sobriety potion and not a love potion."
"Let's just forget I said anything. I'm not in my right mind or something."
"Alright, Cassinova. Can I apperate you 'ome?"
"I wish." Harry blushed but caught himself and quickly added, "I…I mean…I should return to the party before Hermione or Ron send out a search party. You said you were in town with your sister. I don't suppose you want to come with me, meet the family?" Harry asked.
"I'm not dressed for a party," Gabrielle insisted.
"And yet…you look beautiful all the same."
Gabrielle tossed the empty bottle, which bounced off his chest.
"And it would be a great help to me. Certainly help distract all my male friends from my current predicaments."
"Oui, your charm knows no limits."
"Although you might want to watch out for Hermione's new coworker Tracy. I'm pretty sure she's a lesbian." Harry added, "Unless you're in to that sort of thing."
"I wouldn't know," Gabrielle answered. "I've never tried it."
"Wait…what?"
Harry's interest caused Gabrielle to add, "Well, I 'avn't."
"I thought all Veela had lessons in sexual gratification and such."
"Oui, maybe Fluer, but she was sneaking around and giving blowjobs to her teachers at an early age." Gabrielle held her chin up with a clearly fake posh expression, "I told my parents that I 'ad more integrity. And I was perfectly 'appy to wait for the right person."
Leaning forward, Gabrielle gripped harry's arm with both hands. This position also resulted in her breasts pushed together, her diamond hard nipples poking through her shirt, in full view of Harry's gaze.
"Do you think you could be the right person, 'arry?" Eyes looked up under thick eyelashes.
"Wha— ?" Blood rushed from Harry's brain as he tried to form a reply.
As quick as she approach Gabrielle leaned away, her gaze downward.
"I'm joking, of course. I'll admit to being quite the flirt. At least, that is what all my girlfriends tell me at Beauxbatons."
Harry shook his head and grabbed her hand, leading her out the door.
"Come on."
It was with some trepidation that Harry entered the Three Broomsticks for the second time that night. Judging by the sound of the room, things had not died down since his departure.
"Harry Potter! What were you thinking?" Harry found his vision blocked by thick, curly hair that smelled of cinnamon.
"— Air, Hermione —"
"I think 'is eyes are popping out of his 'ead."
The boa constrictor around his chest finally released him.
"O, hello. Thank you for bring back this lost stray. I'm Hermione Weasley-Granger and you are?"
"Gabrielle Delacour."
"Oh, Fluer's little sister." Gabrielle's eyes narrowed. "I thought I recognized you. Are you visiting for Fluer's upcoming birth? I'd imagine you just finished at Beauxbatons too. I'd love to pick your brain on the school. I've read all about it but never got the chance to visit, even after Hogwarts. Perhaps—"
"Ok, that's enough Hermione. You can grill the poor girl at a later time." Harry took Gabrielle's hand and started toward an empty table.
He could feel eyes on them. "Gabrielle agreed to accompany me back to the party. Let's find a seat. Really, I'm fine — just needed some fresh air."
"Really? You ran into each other outside? Gabrielle, I don't know if your sister mentioned, but the ministry's been dealing with a rash of kidnappings lately. It's not safe for a foreign young witch—such as yourself—to wander alone at night."
"Really Hermione. It's not that bad."
Hermione glared at Harry over her cup. "We had two more go missing last week. We're almost positive they're based in that warehouse block in Livermore."
"Snatchers? Well, have the Auror's gut the place and kick them out."
"It's not that simple Harry, we need proof and if we act too soon, the political fallout would be severe."
She reached out a hand and took Gabrielle's. "Just promise me you'll be careful while visiting."
Ron and Dean join them. Harry groaned as at least three other guys approached, but now stood around, lingering in the background. Gabby smiled at him with a knowing look. Was this what Fluer's life at Hogwarts had been?
"I should introduce myself. Ron Weasley. Harry Potter's best friend and war hero." Harry's eyes widened. Was Ron trying to strut while sitting in the chair? "I'd be happy to show you around. See some cool sights around Hogsmeed and — ouch."
Hermione's punch to the shoulder brought an end to Ron's flirting.
"Honestly, Ron, in front of your wife. I'll choose to blame the allure. This one time."
The conversation picked back up. Over the next hour, Harry watch in amazement at how easily Gabrielle handled the group, keeping everyone's interest at the table. Even Hermione had stopped pestering him every few minutes, until...
"Honestly Harry. You need to stop brooding. Go have fun. Go help Nevile with those two attractive single women at the bar."
"Hermione, Harry doesn't need to spend time with Nevile. He's a guy. Also, I think those two are birds are gay. Though I agree with you, he should find some broad to bang and move on with his life."
"Ron! Don't be so lewd in public! What have I told you about this at home?"
"I agree with Ron." Gabrielle smiled as she placed her hand on Harry's arm. "And I'm 'appy to assist you with that effort."
Harry's eyes widened as the entire table turned toward Gabrielle. Realizing her words, she turned red and blurted out, "I meant finding someone for 'im, not sleep with 'im. I know friends from school who find 'arry fanciful. I mean, I'm not apposed to such a thing myself, but—"
"It's ok. I know what you meant. Thank you for the offer."
Ron's laugh brought everyone's eyes back to him. "And here I thought I had the monopoly on foot in mouth syndrome. Hopefully, it's not contagious."
"Don't think it would be so bad," Dean added. "As long as it's her foot."
A dozen more people had closed in around the table as the room filled up. Whether it was the crowded room or Gabrielle attracting attention, people kept bumping into the back of his chair.
Harry jumped to his feet. His hand clutched at his glass of water. At everyone's questioning glance, he added. "I need air. Gabrielle, would you care to join me on the back patio?"
Her smile lit up the room. "It would be a pleasure."
The Three Broomstick's patio was a fenced in enclosure with two rows of five tables. A small creek ran west along one edge, the noise of moving water filled the air. On clearing the door, Gabrielle took his arm. Harry meandered to an empty standing area at the back fence.
"It's a lovely night."
Harry only nodded as he pulled in tighter. The night was colder than just an hour ago, or his prior inebriated state had made him immune to the chill in the air.
"Allow me," Gabrielle's warming charm swept across both of them as they stood shoulder to shoulder under the moonlight.
"Thanks," Harry said. "I didn't have my wand on me."
Gabrielle's eyes widened. "You don't carry a wand?"
"I try not to. Its…complicated. I have one, of course. Only, I find myself more comfortable without it in hand."
"I've never 'eard about a witch or wizard not keeping a wand at all times. I'd say not 'aving my wand would make me feel naked, but I actually don't mind naked."
"I find the open air liberating. Not that I get out much. I've never had a reason to explore magical Britain."
"Well, I find myself in Britain for ze foreseeable future. But, I confess to not knowing much of zis country. The 'ope was for Fluer or Bill to show me around. So far, zey 'ave been too busy…"
"I'm sure you'll find Britain and its people a wonderful change of pace."
"Oui?"
"But it's the muggle side of things that I find the most enjoyable. Much more to see and do."
"Sounds exciting."
"Muggles are mostly harmless. And there are so many of them, it offers the opportunity to get lost in the crowd."
"Perhaps broadening my 'orizons would be fun."
They stood in silence for a few more minutes until Gabrielle began to fidget in place. Harry noticed she kept playing with her hair. He couldn't help but take in how the moonlight brightened her eyes and did wonders to enhance her skin's near perfect complexion.
Gabrielle leaned against the low railing which fenced in the area. At first, he caught sight of her breasts as she leaned backward. Then, the image of her hair flowing in the breeze caused a long forgot memory to come up and clubbed him over the head. This was the same spot, all those years ago, where Ginny had broken up with him. They had been dating for a while, if you could call it that. He was neck deep in some project and she with daily practice for the Harpies.
He'd bought a ring, too. This was around the same time that Ron and Hermione got engaged. Everyone asked about when he would tie the knot. It was exhausting. He'd carried that ring with him for weeks, then to this very spot, only for Ginny to end the relationship for good. Now that ring was on Amelia's finger and he would likely never see it or her again…thankfully.
"'Arry? Are you in zere?"
He focused on Gabrielle, having missed her question. She matched his gaze, but with an unfamiliar expression.
Taking a deep breath, he said, "We should probably head back inside. Before they send out a search party."
Gabrielle took a step back and looked down at her feet. "Oui." Harry's heart lurched. Her action reminding him of Ginny all those years ago. Did he do something wrong…again?
They wandered back in. Harry noticed, despite her shivers, she no longer held his arm, or re-apply the warming charm.
"All right. Thank you for all for an eventful evening, but I should be going."
Harry cut off Hermione's protest. "No Hermione, I've put in an appearance. I'm not drunk and I'm not the first to leave anymore."
Turning to Gabrielle, he added. "Do you still need me to escort you home?"
"Non. I saw Bill at the back and Fluer asked me to ensure he got 'ome at — a reasonable 'our."
Harry turned and forced his way outside where he turned on the spot and disappeared. He did not catch Gabrielle's sad gaze as she watched him depart.
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