A/N: We did it everyone, we have officially crossed the 1,000 views mark, everyone gives yourselves a round of applause! We are at 1,279 views. Thanks for all the support everybody, it really means so much to me! I am going to my older sister's wedding today, but before that, I figured I would leave you all with a new chapter, so enjoy!
Seven months had passed since James had first walked through the iron gates of Azkaban as an Auror. It was now Christmas Eve, a day known for its warmth and joy, a stark contrast to the cold, daunting ambiance of the prison. Today, he was slated to return home, to the laughter and merriment of his family. But before that, there was something he needed to do.
He made his way to Delphi's cell, his fingers tightly clutching a small object. Delphi was sitting quietly when he arrived, her eyes curious but guarded as he approached.
"Merry Christmas, Delphi," he began, his voice echoing off the stone walls. She raised an eyebrow, her gaze falling to the item in his hands.
"I wanted to give you this," he said, holding out a book. "It's a muggle novel - The Fellowship of the Ring. It's part of a trilogy called The Lord of the Rings."
He watched as Delphi took the book, her fingers lightly brushing against its cover. She glanced at him, a question in her eyes. James offered a small smile, replying to her unspoken query, "I know you like reading, and this is one of my favourite stories. It's about friendship, loyalty, and the struggle between good and evil. I thought...I thought you might like it."
A moment of silence passed between them, the air thick with unspoken thoughts and feelings. "Thank you, James," Delphi finally said, her voice barely above a whisper. She traced her fingers over the title of the book, a ghost of a smile on her face.
As James turned to leave, he felt a warmth in his heart. This Christmas was different - it was not just about celebrating with his family anymore. It was also about sharing a bit of his world with someone who, despite being locked in the darkest place, was finding her way towards the light. And for James, that was the true spirit of Christmas.
James Potter found himself surrounded by a cacophony of sounds that had become the hallmark of Christmas at The Burrow. The crackling of the fire in the hearth, the chattering of his siblings, cousins, and Teddy Lupin, their family friend and Victoire's husband, all set to the backdrop of his Grandmother Molly's bustling in the kitchen.
His brother, Albus, and sister, Lily, were playfully arguing over who got to open the first present, while his cousins, Fred and Roxanne Weasley, were debating the merit of a new broomstick model. Rose Weasley was deep in discussion about a challenging spell with Louis Weasley, the former's eyes shining with intellectual curiosity. Meanwhile, Dominique Weasley, Molly Weasley II, and Lucy Weasley were giggling, sharing a joke that seemed to only make sense to them.
Victoire Weasley, ever the serene figure, sat with Teddy Lupin, their fingers entwined, while they watched the Weasley clan's antics with affectionate amusement.
The Burrow was alive with cheer, warmth radiating from every corner. It was home - a sanctuary of love and acceptance.
James loved these moments, the feeling of belonging, the sense of connection with his family. But as he looked around the room, amidst the laughter and banter, he found his thoughts drifting back to Azkaban, to Delphi. He wondered how she was spending her Christmas, and whether she had started reading the book he had given her.
"Earth to James?" Fred's voice snapped James out of his reverie. "We're about to start the traditional Weasley Christmas game. You in?"
James shook off his thoughts and grinned at his cousin. "Always," he replied. After all, he was still a Weasley, and Christmas at The Burrow was incomplete without their infamous games.
Later that night, as he settled into his old room, the sounds of the Burrow's merriment a comforting hum in the background, James promised himself that he'd make Delphi's next Christmas a little less lonely. He didn't know how yet, but he was determined to try.
For now, though, he would relish in the joy of his family, remembering that even in the toughest of times, there was still love, laughter, and the comforting chaos of The Burrow.
The lively chatter at the Burrow's dinner table came to a sudden halt as Ginny Potter looked at her eldest son, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "So, James," she began, voice loud enough to carry over the sizzle of the roast and the hum of conversation, "why don't you tell us more about this 'girl' you've been seeing?"
The words hung in the air like an invisible spectre, the relative silence that followed louder than any uproar. Almost instinctively, every eye at the table turned towards James, anticipation evident on each face.
"A girl?" Hermione Granger-Weasley, his aunt, echoed, surprise evident in her tone, "What girl?"
Fleur Weasley, another of his aunts, also chimed in, "Oui, James, do tell us about this girl." Her French accent seemed to lend an extra layer of intrigue to the question.
James could feel the color rising in his cheeks, his every instinct screaming at him to Apparate away, back to the relative peace and anonymity of Azkaban. Yet, he was rooted to his spot, trapped under the expectant gaze of his entire family. He wished he had taken that extra shift at Azkaban today.
"Well…" he cleared his throat, stalling for time, hoping for a miraculous interruption that, unfortunately, didn't seem forthcoming.
Ginny smiled encouragingly at her son, a twinkle in her eyes that James knew too well; she was enjoying this.
"It's nothing, really," he said, trying to keep his tone casual, "Just a friend I've made, no big deal."
A series of understanding nods followed his statement, along with a chorus of "Ah…" and the gradual resurgence of side conversations. However, James knew better than to believe he was off the hook. Just as the din of conversation began to pick up again, a clear, authoritative voice cut through the noise. It was Harry Potter, seated at the head of the table, a stern expression on his face. James felt a knot of unease in his stomach, knowing that his father's words were meant for him.
"You've been talking about this friend for several months now, James," Harry began, his gaze steady on his son. The room, once again, descended into silence. All eyes returned to James, expectation in their collective gaze. "And yet, you haven't mentioned her name even once."
The accusation, although not harsh, was evident. The challenge in his father's voice was something James was all too familiar with, and it made him momentarily regret his choice to share any of this with his family. The fireplace crackled in the background, the pop and sizzle of the flames adding an extra layer of intensity to the quiet atmosphere.
James fiddled with the edge of his napkin, avoiding his father's gaze. He could feel the weight of the question hanging in the air. The problem was, he couldn't tell them her name. He couldn't tell them that the friend he had been talking about was Delphi Riddle, the notorious dark witch, and the last living descendant of Voldemort. That wouldn't just raise eyebrows; it would cause an uproar.
Taking a deep breath, he steeled himself, meeting his father's gaze with a smile that he hoped looked more confident than he felt. "It's a bit of an unspoken agreement between us," he lied smoothly. "She values her privacy, and I respect that."
The silence that followed James's statement felt heavier than any he had ever experienced. He could practically hear the gears turning in his father's head. Fred Weasley, noticing the tension and recognizing James's plea for help from across the table, decided to step in.
With a sip of his drink to clear his throat, Fred addressed the table with an assured smile, his words carefully chosen to come to his cousin's aid. "You know, I've actually met her before," Fred began, meeting James's gaze with a subtle nod.
The statement brought about a round of surprised murmurs. James, although surprised, shot Fred a grateful look. "Yeah, and James is right. She's not your typical kind of girl." He paused for effect, shooting a conspiratorial wink at James before continuing, "She's...different. More closed off, you could say."
His words seemed to ease the tension in the room. Ginny and Hermione nodded in understanding, their maternal instincts kicking in. "Not all girls like to be paraded around," Ginny agreed, her gaze softening. Hermione chimed in with a smile, "It's refreshing to see a young man being so considerate of a girl's feelings."
Fleur, elegant as always, sipped her wine, "It's sweet, really. James is very considerate of her."
Ron, however, was not so easily convinced. "Still, not giving a name is a bit weird, isn't it?"
Before James could respond, Molly Weasley Sr. intervened. She silenced the table with a wave of her hand, her tone carrying the warmth and authority only a grandmother could muster. "When James is ready to introduce her, he will." Her words, carrying the finality of a decision, closed the discussion, and once again, the room filled with the noise of Christmas chatter, allowing James to breathe a sigh of relief.
The day after Christmas found James back at Azkaban, the festive joy of the previous day clashing with the gloominess of the prison. As he navigated through the stark, cold corridors, he couldn't help but recall the warmth and laughter of the Burrow. He put on a brave face, reminding himself of his duty.
Upon reaching Delphi's cell, he was greeted with an unexpected cheerfulness. "Happy belated Christmas, Potter," Delphi greeted him with a playful smirk as she sat up on her cot. He was taken aback by her greeting, but quickly recovered, returning her greeting with a smile.
"Glad to see someone's in the holiday spirit, even if it is a day late." James retorted, leaning against the cell bars. Delphi rolled her eyes but there was no real heat behind it.
She then lifted the book that he had gifted her, a sign of their growing friendship, a new topic emerging in their conversation. "This 'Lord of the Rings', it's... interesting." Delphi began, her expression thoughtful as she flipped through the pages of the book. "I've been enjoying it."
James couldn't help but let out a small chuckle. "Never took you for the fantasy type, Riddle."
Delphi returned his smirk. "I'm full of surprises, Potter. But honestly…" She paused, her eyes narrowing as she considered her next words. "I can't help but see some… similarities between the story and reality."
This piqued James's curiosity. "Like what?"
Delphi chuckled darkly as she held up the book, her finger pointed at the name 'Sauron'. "Like this character. I can't help but wonder if my father took some... inspiration from him." Her voice was laced with a bitterness that only a daughter of Voldemort could carry.
The idea of Voldemort taking inspiration from a muggle story was ludicrous, but somehow it made sense in a twisted way. A chuckle escaped James, the humor in the situation not lost on him.
"Oh, Merlin, that's a thought," he said, grinning as he shook his head in amusement. "Sauron, the Dark Lord of the Wizarding World. The Prophet would have a field day."
Delphi grinned at the image James painted, the heavy atmosphere of the prison temporarily forgotten in their shared laughter.
Delphi shifted the topic back to the book, her face lighting up slightly. "I quite like this character, Gandalf. He's... intriguing."
James nodded, understanding her fascination. Gandalf was a character that commanded respect, much like Dumbledore, another wizard they both knew.
"But I couldn't quite understand why he refused to take the ring from Frodo, when he clearly had the power to keep it safe," Delphi continued, a puzzled expression etching her face.
James leaned back on the cell bars, finding himself enjoying this book discussion with Delphi more than he'd like to admit. The conversation took them away from the grim reality of Azkaban, if only for a moment.
"Well, the ring wasn't just a piece of jewelry, Delphi," he started, trying to explain the complexity of the ring's allure. "It was a symbol of power, a corrupting force. Even Gandalf, as powerful and wise as he was, understood that he wouldn't be immune to its influence."
Delphi crossed her arms, listening attentively as James continued. "You see, the ring, it... it calls out to Gandalf. He could feel its allure, its seductive promise of power, even without having to put it on. Now imagine how quickly he would be corrupted if he actually wore it."
His explanation hung in the air between them, the grim parallel to their own world not lost on either of them. Just like the ring, there were forces in their world that promised power, that could corrupt even the most well-meaning wizards and witches.
Delphi was silent for a moment, seemingly contemplating the deeper significance of the story. Then, she gave a thoughtful nod, her eyes meeting James's. "A powerful wizard refusing a dangerous temptation for the greater good... Sounds familiar, doesn't it?"
James nodded in agreement, recalling what he learned in History of Magic during his Hogwarts days. Albus Dumbledore turned down the position of Minister for Magic, because he knew he would abuse his power from a desire to do good. Just what Gandalf said he would have used the ring for. He understood now why Delphi liked Gandalf so much, he was the embodiment of the wisdom and strength she wished her father had possessed.
Days slipped by at Azkaban, each one a mirror of the last in its monotonous predictability. But tonight was different. Tonight was New Year's Eve. Outside the walls of the prison, families gathered in celebration and joy, counting down the final moments of the year. Inside, however, time held a different meaning. Every tick of the clock echoed in the cold, damp corridors, a relentless reminder of the many moments spent in isolation and regret.
James Potter, one of the younger Aurors stationed at Azkaban, found himself on the night shift. He knew it was because of his juniority. Newcomers didn't have the luxury of selecting their schedules, especially not on holidays. But he took it in stride. After all, he had learned to find silver linings in the strangest of places since his arrival here seven months ago.
As he made his rounds through the stark prison halls, he paused at a particular cell. Behind the cold steel bars was Delphi Riddle, her presence an anomaly amidst the hardened criminals. Unlike the others, she didn't exude malice or regret. Instead, she seemed to be waiting, as if Azkaban was just a temporary stop on her journey.
"Shouldn't you be heading home soon, James?" Delphi asked, her voice calm, yet tinged with an unspoken curiosity. "I mean, it's New Year's Eve."
James shook his head, a rueful smile on his face. "Seniority rules, Delphi. I've been here the least amount of time, so I'm one of the 'lucky' ones who gets to spend New Year's Eve at Azkaban."
A flicker of amusement crossed Delphi's face. "Don't you mean 'unlucky'?"
James considered her words, his gaze falling on the cold stone walls of Azkaban. Once, he would have agreed with her. Once, he would have yearned for the warmth of his family's home, the joyful shouts of his siblings, the festive feast his mother always prepared. But that was before he got to know Delphi, before he understood her story, before he realized that their conversations were more captivating than any celebration.
"If you had asked me that seven months ago, maybe," James finally replied, his gaze returning to Delphi. "But now... now, I'm not so sure."
Delphi regarded him silently, her gaze steady. In the dim light of the prison cell, her eyes held a depth that James had come to appreciate, a complexity that was a stark contrast to the harsh realities of Azkaban.
As the rest of the world ushered in the New Year with jubilant cheers and colorful fireworks, James Potter found himself experiencing a different kind of celebration. A quiet acknowledgment of a bond forged in the most unlikely of places, a subtle understanding that, despite the bars separating them, they were on the same side.
As the clock continued to strike the hours away into the late night, the echoing sounds reverberating through the lonely corridors of Azkaban, James suddenly reached into his pocket and pulled out a small, wax-paper-wrapped parcel. His eyes met Delphi's, a flicker of excitement dancing in his gaze.
"I've got something for you," he announced, a boyish grin spreading across his face.
Delphi watched him curiously, her eyebrows furrowing slightly. "What is it?"
James unwrapped the parcel to reveal a small slab of his grandmother's infamous peanut butter fudge. "My Gran Weasley's special," he said with a touch of pride in his voice. "Your favorite."
Delphi's eyes lit up at the sight of the sweet treat. She hadn't tasted anything like that in a long time. "You're joking," she gasped, reaching out her hand to take it, her fingers brushing against his for a brief moment.
"No joke," James confirmed, the grin still plastered on his face. "Especially made for you."
Delphi narrowed her eyes suspiciously, crossing her arms in front of her chest. "I highly doubt your grandmother said, 'specially made for Delphi.'"
James chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck in slight embarrassment. "Well, I might have left out your name when I asked her to make it," he confessed. "But she did say, 'for your girlfriend.'"
There was a brief pause, the implications of his words hanging heavy in the silence. James quickly tried to backtrack, stammering, "I-I mean, a girl who's a friend. Not a girlfriend."
Delphi gave him an awkward smile, her eyes softening slightly. "Yeah, totally," she echoed, although the twinkle in her eye betrayed her amusement.
As she savored the peanut butter fudge, letting the familiar and comforting flavor wash over her taste buds, she couldn't help but smile. It was more than just a piece of candy. It was a gesture, a subtle acknowledgment of their unusual friendship. It may not have been a grand New Year's Eve celebration, but it was something special, something meaningful. And for Delphi Riddle, trapped within the cold walls of Azkaban, that meant more than any fireworks or champagne ever could.
The hands of the clock had danced their way towards midnight, each tick echoing in the stark, cold confines of the Azkaban prison cell. Delphi Riddle looked at James, her silvery-blue tipped hair spilling over her shoulders, and a question had been gnawing at her since their last exchange. She finally voiced it.
"James, do you ever think you'll find someone to spend the rest of your life with?" she asked, her eyes reflecting a genuine curiosity.
James was taken aback by her question. He had never considered such things in any depth, certainly not in the grim setting of Azkaban. He rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "I'm not sure, Delphi. I've had my fair share of dates back in school, but none of them really felt like... well, 'true love'. If that even exists."
He returned her question, "What about you, Delphi?"
Delphi scoffed, "True love in this place?" Her tone was light, almost mocking, but her eyes revealed a vulnerability, a yearning.
They shared a silence, their gazes locked, and in that moment, James couldn't help but notice how beautiful she was. The harsh, stark lighting of the prison cell did nothing to diminish the mesmerizing glint in her eyes. Her hair, tipped with silvery blue, framed her face, accentuating her features in a soft contrast.
The silence that stretched between Delphi and James was thick, as if the very air in the prison cell was holding its breath. Delphi moved toward the bars that separated them, her face pressing slightly through the opening. She looked at James, her eyes searching his.
"James," she whispered, her voice sounding almost small in the harsh confines of Azkaban. "Kiss me... be my New Year's kiss."
Her plea hung in the air, tinged with an unexpected vulnerability and insecurity. James froze, his mind whirling at her request. He knew he shouldn't. He knew it was against all rules, all conventions. But he also knew he couldn't deny the pull, the bond that had formed between them over the past months.
He studied Delphi's face for a moment, her eyes shimmering with anticipation, her lips parted slightly. He saw a woman, not the daughter of Voldemort, not a prisoner, but just a woman who sought a moment of solace, of human connection, amidst the bleakness of her existence.
Closing his eyes, he let his reservations fall away. As he leaned in, he felt the cold bars against his skin, but he didn't waver. The world around them seemed to hold its breath as their lips met through the bars, just as the clock struck midnight.
The kiss wasn't hurried or desperate, like their first one. This time, they lingered, savoring the connection, the shared vulnerability. It was a moment of surprising softness amidst the harsh reality of Azkaban. As they pulled away, they were no longer just an Auror and a prisoner. They were James and Delphi, two individuals who had found an unexpected bond in the unlikeliest of places. Their New Year had begun on a note they could have never anticipated.
A/N: They finally kissed! James and Delphi are officially boy friend and girlfriend. Let me know what you all think. As always feel free to review, i do not censor opinions!
